McLachlan discusses Tasmanian team, his future as CEO

AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan believes the induction of a Tasmanian-based AFL side in the next five years will be "unlikely".

McLachlan avoided discussion surrounding the matter, with the state government set to reveal a report from a Tasmanian AFL taskforce within the coming weeks.

The taskforce, led by former St Kilda captain and Hobart local Nick Riewoldt, have built a case for the state to gain an official license for both the AFL and AFLW.

“Within five years is unlikely,” McLachlan told SEN Breakfast.

“There is a report coming out from the Tassie government in two or three weeks. I’ve said a lot on Tasmania.

“There are challenges down there but they are a great football state and we’ll await the report from the government.”

Both the Hawks and Kangaroos will continue to host AFL matches in Launceston and Hobart until the end of the 2021 season.

McLachlan also revealed he has no plans to move on from his position as AFL CEO.

McLachlan, 47, took over from Andrew Demetriou in 2014, where he has since overseen the development of the expansion clubs, several noteworthy rule changes and the Essendon drug saga.

“No I haven’t (identified a succession plan),” he told SEN Breakfast.

“I get a bit bemused by it all.

“I am very conscious that this is not something you’re in forever, but I’m enjoying it, we’re going pretty well and you’re not getting rid of me yet, Tim (Watson).”

Brendon Gale, Richmond CEO, has been previously linked as McLachlan's successor, admitting Richmond remains as his priority.

“I haven’t coveted it,” Gale told SEN Breakfast in November.

“When people think highly of you and consider you for a role like that, it’s flattering.

“But honestly, I’ve been in this caper long enough to be disciplined enough to stay in the moment. You’ve just got to stay in the moment, you’ve got to do the best job you can.

“If that opportunity arose in the future, and it was something I felt passionately and strongly about, then I’d consider it.

“I’ve been given no indication that’s the case. Right now my focus is absolutely on the Richmond Football Club and I jump out of bed every day absolutely motivated.”