Finalists for 2026 Jim Stynes Community Leadership Award Announced

The AFL has announced the finalists for the 2026 Jim Stynes Community Leadership Award, featuring Bailey Banfield from Fremantle, Tom Liberatore from the Western Bulldogs, and Kysaiah Pickett from Melbourne.

This award, which will be presented on Brownlow Medal night, honors the AFL player who exemplifies the values of Jim Stynes, a former Melbourne champion and Demons President, through their dedication to community service and leadership.

The winner will receive $40,000 to donate to a charity or community program of their choice. Additionally, Carlton Football Club's Carlton Respects program has been awarded the Jim Stynes Foundation Club Community Award for its alignment with the foundation's mission to foster resilient young people. AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon praised the finalists for their contributions to communities across Australia.