Aussie Rules and the AFL haven’t put a dent into rugby league’s window in Sydney’s thriving west according to a report from The Weekend Australian.

Despite the AFL planting a new club into the region (GWS Giants) and spending over $200 million, the AFL has seen zero return on their investment as engagement and interest hits an all-time low.

Putting an AFL team in Western Sydney was always going to be a big task but it appears no amount of money will help AFL against the likes of Penrith Panthers, Parramatta Eels, Canterbury Bulldogs and Wests Tigers.

It has been noted on this website too that the giant South Sydney Rabbitohs are also investing in the area as well with over 15,000 members living in the huge area.

As per AFL journalist Jessica Halloran’s story in The Weekend Australian, just 1% of sports participants in the area play Aussie Rules.

“Of 11 sports covered in the participation rates, AFL sits dead last,” Halloran writes.

Former Sydney Swans boss Richard Colless was also quoted in the story.

“This is rugby league heartland and I fear the AFL may have massively underestimated the power and craftiness of rugby league,” Colless said.

GWS Giants continue to produce miserable live crowds and TV ratings in their home city.