THE AFL supports the decision of the Sydney Swans Football Club to immediately stand down player Elijah Taylor after charges laid against him by Western Australia Police following an incident in Perth on Sunday morning and a failure to abide by club directives on a number of occasions this year.
Taylor is currently serving a season-ending suspension for breaching the AFL’s Return to Play protocols and WA quarantine regulations last month.
While the AFL was unable to comment on the incident involving Taylor which will be determined by court proceedings, AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan said it was important to state clearly that the AFL condemned any violence against women.
"Violence against women in any form is abhorrent and we strongly condemn it," Mr McLachlan said.
"Our view is clear and unequivocal – violence against women is never OK in any circumstance – ever.
"Our absolute commitment is to respect women and to never accept or condone in any way, shape or form violence against women.”
The safety, welfare and care of those involved remains the priority and the AFL Integrity Unit will continue to liaise with WA Police and, in conjunction with the Sydney Swans, continue to provide the support that is required to those involved.
The AFL will not be making any further comment regarding the alleged conduct or the charge while legal proceedings are ongoing.
