In what’s believed to be a first for bush football of any code, Riverina and Farrer League AFL clubs agreed to an initial salary cap of $100,000 for the 2018 season as a starting point in the battle to rein in player payments in the state’s south.

Clarke, speaking after the Western Rams annual general meeting at Wellington on November 29 where a points cap for both Group 10 and Group 11 was ratified ahead of next season, revealed a cap on player payments in western has been discussed. 

“But the practically has been an issue,” Clarke said.

“I wouldn’t say it’s off the table but at this time club’s are happy with a points system to curb inflation of payments.”

Group 10 clubs will be allowed to use 1700 points next season.​

Juniors are worth zero points and any player that’s played international football for Australia, England or New Zealand in the last three years worth 1200 points – the highest charge for any player.

Players who have played NRL in the past three seasons are worth 700, Country rep players are worth 500 points, divisional rep stars, NYC graduates, NSW or QLD Cup players all 400 and Group players 300, while first graders who shift clubs are worth 200. A player’s worth is also decreased each year he remains at the same club until, after three seasons, they’re worth zero.