North Melbourne have been granted three first-round picks over two years as part of its assistance package from the AFL.
The package was approved by the AFL Commission on Monday, with the Roos requesting assistance after winning just 12 of its last 84 games.
The three first-rounders will come at the end of the first round, with one heading the club’s way this year and two coming their way in 2024. Next year’s picks are subject to review in 2024.
North Melbourne will be free to take the picks to the draft or use them in trades.
The club will also keep their two additional rookie list spots which they received ahead of the 2023 season.
Incoming AFL CEO Andrew Dillon hopes the support package helps set the club up for overall improvement in its football program.
"North Melbourne has faced considerable challenges in recent years having not finished higher than 17th on the AFL ladder in the four seasons since 2020. The club presented to the AFL on how assistance can help the club potentially improve its on-field performance," Dillon said via a statement.
"The AFL and football fans want a strong competition. Ensuring North Melbourne is competitive on the field and can build strength across its organisation, in the short term and in a sustainable way, is important for both the club and the broader competition.
"Under the leadership of President Sonja Hood, CEO Jennifer Watt and the club's board, the AFL is confident that North Melbourne is heading in the right direction. After assessing the club's position, the special assistance package can help the club deliver on its strategy for overall improvement in its football program and give greater confidence to staff, players and supporters."
While they received their assistance package, the Commission knocked back the club’s request for early access to potential top 10 pick and North Melbourne Next Generation Academy prospect Ryley Sanders.
As part of standard NGA rules, the Roos will only be allowed to match bids on the Tasmanian if it comes after pick 40.
North Melbourne assistance package is as follows. Clubs have been briefed.
— Callum Twomey (@CalTwomey) September 25, 2023
- End of first round pick this year
- Two end of first round picks in 2024 (can be reviewed next year)
- Two extra rookie list spots for 2024.
- No extra access to Ryley Sanders beyond standard NGA rules.