The AFL will dump its affiliation fees in the multi-million dollar package, saving community clubs in the south-west an average of $6,216.

It means Hampden, Warrnambool and District, South West District and Mininera league clubs will save a total of $254,886 in fees.

The Standard understands affiliation fees help to fund game development officers and regional administration centres.

The three-year funding announcement, which will be rolled out from 2020 to 2022, marks the largest investment in Victorian country football in more than two decades.

Head of AFL Victoria Rick Bell described the move as "really positive".

"It's recognising the significance of country and community footy," Mr Bell said.

"What this means is that the AFL is funding these programs instead."

Mr Bell urged clubs to pass on the savings to players and members.

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"What we'd really like to see is clubs pass it down to parents," he said.

"We've been out at Bacchus Marsh this morning for the announcement and their junior president said it will help as costs are rising across everything.

"As a result of the announcement they will be able to maintain their current fees structure."

In a further move to make football more affordable, the AFL has scrapped umpire registration fees and slashed the cost of club apparel.

Volunteers have received a reprieve in the package, with $950,000 dedicated to help them run clubs.

This will include the launch of a digital portal and face-to-face support system and increased resourcing of region administration centres.

AFL Western District chairman Gerard Lucas hailed the move as beneficial for clubs across the region.

"It's a really positive move for clubs across the region," Lucas said.

"I would hope that clubs can find use for their savings in their operations to support volunteers."

Two integrity officers will be hired to focus on policy development and investigate matters in safeguarding children, vilification and social media breaches.

More than $300,000 has been dedicated to the introduction of Village Hubs which will be launched to align local schools, community clubs and AFL clubs.

MORE TO COME.

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