THE AFL has opened the door for St Kilda's Georgia Patrikios  – and other unvaccinated players – to return after updating its vaccination requirements on Thursday.

All players, coaches and others in the industry were previously required to be fully vaccinated in line with state and territory government guidelines to combat COVID-19, but now the AFL has removed the mandatory element of the guidelines, which is consistent with changes at state and territory level. 

FULL STATEMENT AFL releases update on vaccination requirements

After an extensive review in consultation with the AFL Players Association, clubs, umpires, headquarters and the AFL's chief medical officer, the change will be implemented immediately. 

After sitting out last season, Saints midfielder Georgia Patrikios will theoretically be available to resume training at Moorabbin ahead of the AFLW season in a major boost for Nick Dal Santo's side.

Patrikios was never placed on the club's inactive list, despite her not complying with the vaccination policy and therefore inability to play at all in the 2022 season.

Adelaide's Deni Varnhagen, who opposed the League's vaccination policy, will be on the Crows' inactive list for season seven due to maternity leave. The change in policy does theoretically open the door for her to return in future seasons.

Crow Deni Varnhagen in action during the 2021 NAB AFLW Grand Final. Picture: AFL Photos

AFL Executive General Manager Football Andrew Dillon said the league still recommends the industry is vaccinated but has altered its approach to match changes around the country. 

"The health and safety of our players, staff and the wider community has been one of the guiding principles governing the AFL's ongoing response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic," Dillon said.

"Our AFL industry has continued to adapt to the circumstances in front of us, and while we have removed the mandatory vaccine mandate, we still maintain the view that vaccinations are the best form of defence in minimising the impacts of COVID with the focus now on keeping up-to-date with all recommended boosters.

"We will continue to monitor the COVID situation as it evolves. If we need to adjust over the coming weeks and months, we will do so in consultation with the respective Governments and medical professionals.

"As an industry we are committed to providing a safe environment for all our people and doing what we can to reduce the risk and impact of transmission of COVID-19 within the community."