Tom Elliott understands controversial decision not to pay VFLW players

Tom Elliott says he can understand why several VFL Women’s clubs have opted not to pay their players this season.

Port Melbourne and Essendon VFLW players have had their player payments withdrawn for the 2025 campaign, sparking outrage from the respective playing groups.

But the 3AW Mornings host said while crowds and general interest remained low, it was hard to justify increasing budgets for second-tier women’s football.

Click PLAY to hear Tom Elliott’s thoughts on the story

“At the end of the day you have to be putting bums on seats (to be paid),” he said on 3AW.

“If you’re not putting bums on seats, it’s very hard to argue you should get paid. At the end of the day, football is a form of entertainment.”

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