As part of a collective bargaining agreement between the players union and the FFA, player contract regulations are negotiated on an annual basis.

The new season will also see clubs allowed to award a testimonial to one long-serving player each season and players will have the right to seek independent medical advice as part of their contract.

In addition, the $150,000 allowed for a junior marquee role can be utilised for one player or split between three players.

PFA president Simon Colosimo is delighted with the progress being made with regards to player welfare and admits it is a far cry from the days of players struggling to earn a living and make a real career out of football.

"It's great for the guys coming through, that people are able to train and play full-time. We're trying to have a situation where players can enjoy this as career and have that degree of security," he told au.fourfourtwo.com.