The VFL competition structure has been confirmed for the next three seasons amid speculation regarding an AFL reserves league.
Locked in until the end of 2028, the 22-team league will continue to operate in its current format.
The state league comprises of eight standalone clubs, two aligned clubs and 12 AFL reserves teams. The Preston Bullants recently exited the VFL, while the Tasmania Devils and St Kilda reserves were added.
The Saints reserves split from the Sandringham Zebras during the off-season.
AFL GM of Football performance Greg Swann said the decision to continue the VFL format for three years will give stakeholders "great confidence".
"Throughout the off-season we have worked closely with all clubs to carefully assess the overall performance of the VFL and its member clubs," Swann said.
"VFL clubs have in recent seasons operated on a year-by-year basis without certainty on the future direction of the competition.
"The commitment to maintaining the current VFL structure for at least the next three seasons enables clubs and their stakeholders to operate with greater confidence in the knowledge the competition will continue in its current format until at least 2028."
Clubs are also required to complete annual license reviews to ensure on and off-field obligations are met.
The VFL has also confirmed its broadcast agreement, which will see Kayo Sports, ABC, Channel Seven and SEN showcase matches.
Kayo Sports will broadcast 16 matches in the opening 13 rounds of the season. Some will act as curtain raisers for the AFL. The streaming service will also broadcast the finals.
The ABC will broadcast one match per round, as well as one final in each of the three weeks. The preliminary finals and grand final will also be on ABC. The network returns to the reserves league, after holding rights from 1987 to 2014.
The Seven Network will broadcast all 10 Tasmania Football club games.
