From the backyard to the big leagues, sport has always been a defining part of Australian life. Whether it’s a friendly cricket match on Christmas Day or a weekend spent cheering for your AFL team, Australians live and breathe sport.
But with so many games loved across the country, one question sparks debate year after year, what is the most popular sport in Australia?
In this article, we’ll explore the nation’s top sports based on participation, youth involvement, and cultural following, along with a few fast-growing newcomers. You’ll also see how team pride and unity, expressed through colours, uniforms, and spirit, keep Australian sports so uniquely vibrant.
Key Takeaways
- AFL and soccer dominate Australian sport by fandom and participation.
- Cricket, netball, basketball, and rugby maintain strong national traditions.
- Emerging sports like pickleball and women’s leagues are reshaping the future.
- Teamwear and identity remain vital to every club’s sense of unity and pride.
How We Define “Most Popular”
There’s no single way to measure popularity in sport. Some sports draw millions of fans to the stands and screens, while others dominate local parks and school playgrounds. To get a clear picture, we looked at:
- Participation rates: how many Australians play or compete
- Youth involvement: the next generation’s sporting choices
- Spectatorship and media interest: what the nation loves to watch
- Cultural impact: how deeply each sport shapes communities
With these factors in mind, here are the top 10 most popular sports in Australia today.
Top 10 Most Popular Sports in Australia (2025 Update)
1. Australian Rules Football (AFL)
If there’s one sport that defines Australia’s southern states, it’s Aussie Rules. Born in Victoria in the 1850s, AFL blends endurance, skill, and strategy into a uniquely fast-paced game.
- Participation: More than 600,000 registered players nationwide
- Cultural reach: The AFL Grand Final regularly attracts over 4 million TV viewers
- Why Australians love it: Community clubs, fierce rivalries, and unforgettable traditions
From professional stadiums to regional ovals, footy unites families and towns.
Teamwear link: AFL guernseys, shorts, and training tops are proudly customised with club colours.
2. Soccer
While AFL dominates spectator passion, soccer wins by participation, especially among kids. Over 1.1 million Australians play the game, making it the most played sport across all age groups.
The success of the Socceroos and the inspiring run of the Matildas at the FIFA Women’s World Cup have fuelled a new wave of enthusiasm, particularly among young girls.
- Youth stats: Nearly half of Australian children aged 6–13 have played soccer
- Why Australians love it: Inclusive, global, and easy to pick up anywhere
Teamwear link: Lightweight, breathable jerseys and matching socks make every squad look the part.
Read more: Top Benefits of Custom Soccer Jerseys for Your Club
3. Cricket
When summer arrives, cricket takes over backyards, beaches, and sports grounds.
- Participation: Over 700,000 registered players, plus millions of casual backyard players
- Cultural reach: Test matches and the Big Bash League are major summer events
Cricket connects generations, from kids learning to bat for the first time to veterans playing Sunday league.
Teamwear link: Polo shirts, caps, and lightweight trousers make classic cricket attire both functional and stylish.
Read more: Your Custom Cricket Uniforms Guide: Design, Comfort & Performance
4. Rugby League
In New South Wales and Queensland, Rugby League is more than a sport, it’s a way of life. The NRL draws huge crowds and fierce loyalty, with legendary clubs like the Rabbitohs, Broncos, and Roosters inspiring generations.
- Participation: Around 180,000 players, with strong school and junior competitions
- Why Australians love it: Physical intensity, regional pride, and thrilling rivalries
Teamwear link: Reinforced jerseys and durable shorts are essential for this high-contact game.
Read more: Best Personalised Rugby Gifts for Fans & Players
5. Netball
As one of the most played sports for women and girls, netball is a cornerstone of community sport in Australia. From school courts to the elite Super Netball competition, it fosters teamwork, strategy, and agility.
- Participation: Over 1.2 million players nationwide
- Why Australians love it: Fast, inclusive, and community-driven
Teamwear link: Custom dresses, bibs, and training gear help teams feel united and professional.
6. Basketball
Basketball’s rise in Australia has been incredible. Driven by the success of the NBL and stars like Patty Mills and Josh Giddey, more kids are choosing basketball than ever before.
- Participation: Over 700,000 registered players, with rapid youth growth
- Why Australians love it: Fast, accessible, and played year-round indoors
Teamwear link: Custom singlets and matching shorts add polish to any club or social team.
7. Swimming
Surrounded by water, it’s no surprise swimming is one of Australia’s most universal activities. It’s both a life skill and a competitive sport.
- Participation: Over 6 million Australians swim regularly for health or sport
- Cultural reach: Olympic champions and school carnivals keep it part of Aussie identity
Teamwear link: Team swim caps, towels, and lightweight tees bring club unity poolside.
Read more: Custom Made Swimwear in Australia: Design, Fit & Fabric Guide
8. Rugby Union
Rugby Union holds deep traditions, particularly in NSW, ACT, and among private schools. While participation is smaller than League, its community culture and global competition appeal keep it strong.
- Participation: Around 150,000 registered players
- Cultural reach: Wallabies’ international presence
Teamwear link: Heavy-duty jerseys, socks, and training gear reflect the sport’s toughness.
9. Tennis
The Australian Open brings tennis to centre stage each January, inspiring thousands to pick up a racquet.
- Participation: Around 900,000 casual and competitive players
- Why Australians love it: Combines fitness, skill, and summer energy
Teamwear link: Performance polos, skirts, and shorts help players stay cool on the court.
10. Running & Athletics
From school carnivals to park runs, Australians love to move. Running and athletics continue to grow thanks to the nation’s focus on health, fitness, and outdoor lifestyles.
- Participation: Millions of Australians run recreationally each week
- Why Australians love it: Accessible, affordable, and perfect for any age
Teamwear link: Breathable singlets and shorts bring comfort to every stride.
Is There a “National Sport” of Australia?
Unlike some countries with a single official sport, Australia’s diversity makes the question tricky. Historically, cricket and Aussie Rules have been seen as leading contenders for the title of “national sport.”
Cricket connects Australians to the summer season and international pride, while AFL represents grassroots community life across much of the country. The reality? Australia’s national sport is the spirit of competition itself, no matter the code or season.
Fastest-Growing & Emerging Sports
Australian sport continues to evolve. Beyond the traditional powerhouses, new and exciting disciplines are emerging:
- Women’s soccer and basketball are growing rapidly, fuelled by professional leagues and global success.
- Men’s netball is gaining attention, with participation rising across New South Wales.
- Pickleball, a mix of tennis and table tennis, is one of the fastest-growing recreational sports.
- Surfing and cycling remain deeply tied to Australia’s outdoor lifestyle, thriving as social and fitness pursuits.
Emerging Sport | Why It’s Growing | Common Apparel |
Pickleball | Easy to learn, fun for all ages | Lightweight polos & shorts |
Surfing | Tied to coastal identity | Rash shirts & board shorts |
Cycling | Popular for fitness & commuting | Jerseys & bib shorts |
This mix shows how Australians continually find new ways to connect, compete, and celebrate sport together.
Why Team Identity Matters in Australian Sport
Across all these sports, one thing never changes, the pride that comes from wearing your team’s colours.
A well-designed uniform does more than identify players; it strengthens unity, builds confidence, and represents your community. From grassroots clubs to professional squads, looking the part plays a huge role in feeling part of something bigger.
At Team Spirit Sports, we believe that connection is at the heart of every great performance. Whether you’re designing custom AFL guernseys, soccer kits, or netball dresses, we help Australian teams stand out with pride.
Try our 3D design tool to equip your team with custom uniforms, jerseys, and sportswear made for performance and pride.
Australia’s Sporting Spirit Lives On
From the roar of an AFL crowd to the quiet rhythm of early-morning swimmers, sport connects Australians in every corner of the country.
Each game tells a story, of community, dedication, and teamwork. While soccer leads in participation and AFL dominates the airwaves, every sport reflects Australia’s love for movement, mateship, and competition.
Whatever you play, wherever you play, one thing’s certain: Australia’s sporting spirit never sleeps.
FAQs About Sports in Australia
1. What sport has the biggest fan following in Australia?
AFL has the strongest spectator base and cultural following nationwide.
2. What is the fastest-growing sport in Australia?
Women’s soccer and basketball are seeing the fastest growth, alongside pickleball in recreation.
3. What sport is best for kids in Australia?
Soccer, netball, and swimming are ideal for building coordination, fitness, and teamwork.
4. Is there a national sport of Australia?
There’s no official national sport, but cricket and AFL are the strongest cultural icons.
5. How does custom teamwear help clubs?
Custom uniforms unite players, promote identity, and build pride both on and off the field.