The 2026 AFLW preliminary finals feature North Melbourne vs Sydney and Melbourne vs Carlton at IKON Park on 21 November. The winners will contest the Friday 27 November Grand Final in Melbourne. Find match times and Australian TV and streaming options.
The 2026 AFLW premiership race is reaching its climax, with North Melbourne, Sydney, Melbourne and Carlton fighting for two places in the Grand Final. The preliminary finals are scheduled for Saturday 21 November, ahead of the season decider on Friday 27 November at IKON Park in Melbourne.
AFLW semi-finals: Sydney and Carlton advance
Sydney kept its season alive with a narrow 50–47 victory over Geelong in the semi-finals on 14 November. Carlton also survived a tight elimination contest, defeating Hawthorn 43–38. Both clubs now face a formidable challenge against teams that advanced directly to the preliminary finals.
AFLW preliminary finals: Saturday 21 November
North Melbourne vs Sydney Swans – 1:05 pm AEDT, IKON Park, Melbourne.
Melbourne vs Carlton – 4:05 pm AEDT, IKON Park, Melbourne.
North Melbourne, the reigning premier, enters as a leading contender with a chance to extend its remarkable run of success. Sydney has shown it can withstand knockout pressure, but will need to produce one of its best performances against the Kangaroos.
Melbourne will take on Carlton in the second preliminary final. The Demons have enjoyed a direct route to this stage, while the Blues bring momentum from their hard-fought semi-final win. With a Grand Final berth at stake, both matches promise a tense afternoon of football.
AFLW Grand Final 2026: date, venue and start time
The 2026 AFLW Grand Final will be played on Friday 27 November at IKON Park, Melbourne. It is scheduled as the competition's first Friday night Grand Final. The two finalists will be determined by the preliminary finals on 21 November. The opening bounce time has not yet been confirmed.
Where to watch the AFLW finals live in Australia
Australian fans can follow the remaining AFLW finals on the Seven Network and via 7plus. Subscription coverage is also available through Foxtel, Kayo Sports and BINGE. Check the local TV guide closer to each match for channel-specific listings and any broadcast updates.
Who are the premiership favourites?
North Melbourne enters the final fortnight with the experience and winning pedigree of a reigning champion. Melbourne is another strong contender, while Sydney and Carlton have already demonstrated the composure needed to survive close elimination matches. The preliminary finals will decide which two teams get the opportunity to play for the 2026 AFLW premiership.
AFLW finals tickets
Tickets for the preliminary-finals double-header are scheduled to go on sale on Monday 16 November. Check the official AFLW and Ticketmaster announcements for current availability, admission conditions and Grand Final ticket information.