AFL leaves door ajar for GWS Giants to return to Manuka Oval in 2020

AFL chief executive Gillon McLachlan is targeting a June 11 return to action with a revised 17-round fixture being published in blocks of four to six weeks at a time.

The GWS Giants have opened discussions with the ACT government about the prospect of playing at Manuka Oval this season, but the move would hinge on crowds being allowed to attend.

The AFL's decision to release the fixture in blocks amid the coronavirus pandemic means officials remain flexible on venues in the hope fans are allowed to filter back into games.

The Giants were scheduled to host three regular season matches at Manuka Oval this season as part of a 10-year, $23 million deal with the territory government.

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The value of the deal will fall slightly given the government will not be asked to stump up a match return fee of about $400,000 plus GST per match.

"We've already had a number of discussions with the ACT government about what the remainder of the season looks like," Giants chief operating officer James Avery said.

"We're going to continue to speak to the government as more details and circumstances continue to progress.

"We're yet to finalise those details about how many, if any games are played in Canberra, but all we can do is work with the AFL and government towards the best possible outcome.

"Clearly the AFL will be releasing blocks of the fixture to give themselves the necessary flexibility to work around changing circumstances, suitable venues and locations.

"At this stage, the detail around where and when we will be playing is to be determined. Obviously crowds won't be permitted for the initial part of the season.

"Whether that chances for the latter parts of the season, we don't know yet. The AFL clubs and will be in constant dialogue with government about that."

The Giants are in the midst of the ninth year of their partnership with the ACT government but plans to extend the deal have been put on the backburner.

For now the focus remains on overcoming the COVID-19 crisis and returning to football next month, with GWS cleared to remain in Sydney and travel interstate for games pending border restrictions.

"We're in constant dialogue with the ACT government who have been a terrific partner and continue to be a terrific partner during what has been a difficult time for everyone," Avery said.

"Discussions about renewing agreements haven't been a priority at the moment, everyone has had more pressing matters on a wider community scale to consider. There are going to be some very stringent protocols in place which are absolutely necessary."