The new tests came about through talks between the AFL, the AFL Players Association and the federal government, with the trial to take place in October and November, according to a report in Melbourne's The Age newspaper.
The new tests were pushed by the AFL, which is keen to find out the extent of illicit drug use among players, the newspaper said on Thursday.
Medical advice obtained by the AFL said hair retains evidence of the use of cocaine and other drugs for up to two months, it said.
AFLPA boss Brendan Gale said the association was initially against the plan but has now backed it following an AFL assurance no players would receive a strike against them under the AFL's three-strikes drugs policy through the trial.
However, the AFLPA released a statement late Thursday morning saying they had not reached an agreement with the AFL in regards to the use of hair testing of players for illicit drugs.
"We are in negotiations with the AFL on this matter, as we have been for some time. These negotiations are not complete and are continuing," the statement read.
The toughened drug testing will be announced early next month, according to The Age.
