March is nearly done, and April is just around the corner. For Australian sports punters, this is the sweet spot for futures betting. Early‑season form is starting to crystallise, but bookmakers’ odds haven’t fully adjusted to the emerging narratives. That means value still exists – if you know where to look.
In this guide, we break down the best futures bets to lock in before April across the three big codes: AFL, NRL, and A‑League. From premiership contenders to player awards, these are the markets where sharp punters can get ahead of the curve.
Why Lock In Futures Now?
Futures markets (premiership, top 4/8, individual awards) become less attractive as the season progresses. Odds shorten on the genuine contenders, and the value dries up. By betting now, before April’s narrative fully settles, you can secure:
- Better odds on teams that are about to go on a run.
- Early value on players whose performance is trending up.
- Hedging opportunities later in the season.
The key is to identify teams and players whose current odds don’t yet reflect their true potential.
AFL – Premiership & Top 8 Value
After the first three rounds of the 2026 AFL season, some clear patterns are emerging. Here’s where the value lies.
Best Bet: Adelaide Crows – Premiership ($12.00)
Adelaide has started the season with two impressive wins, including a 45‑point demolition of a finals contender. Their midfield, led by Jordan Dawson and a fit again Matt Crouch, is firing. The draw is favourable over the next month – they face Gold Coast, West Coast, and North Melbourne before April ends. If they win all three, their odds will halve. Lock in the $12.00 now before the market wakes up.
Top 4 Lock: Greater Western Sydney ($2.50)
The Giants have arguably the best list in the competition but have been plagued by inconsistency. Their opening two rounds showed defensive steel and midfield depth. A top‑4 finish is well within reach, and $2.50 represents solid value for a team with premiership pedigree.
Top 8 Value: Fremantle ($2.20)
The Dockers are flying under the radar after two scrappy wins. Their young core is another year older, and they’ve proven they can win ugly. With a soft draw in April (St Kilda, North Melbourne, West Coast), they should bank four points and push toward the eight. $2.20 is a gift for a team that made the finals last year.
Wooden Spoon Watch: West Coast Eagles ($1.65)
The Eagles are in full rebuild mode. Their list is thin, and early losses have been heavy. The spoon is theirs to lose. The $1.65 price offers little profit, but it’s a near‑certainty – better used in multi‑bets.
NRL – Premiership & Top 4/8 Value
The NRL season is now three weeks old, and a few teams have already separated themselves from the pack. Here’s where the value sits.
Best Bet: Canberra Raiders – Premiership ($15.00)
The Raiders have started 3‑0 with a dominant defence and a balanced attack. Ricky Stuart’s side is flying under the radar because they’re not a glamour club, but their early form suggests they’re genuine contenders. At $15.00, they offer enormous value before their odds shorten. Lock it in now.
Top 4 Lock: Melbourne Storm ($1.80)
The Storm are the Storm – they make the top four almost every year. With a healthy squad and Craig Bellamy still at the helm, $1.80 is a safe bet for a top‑four finish. Not huge value, but a solid anchor for multis.
Top 8 Value: Dolphins ($2.20)
Wayne Bennett’s Dolphins have started 2‑1 and look far more settled than their inaugural year. Their recruitment has paid off, and they have a favourable draw in April (Tigers, Titans, Dragons). $2.20 for a top‑eight finish is a great price for a team that could push for the finals.
Dally M Medal: Nicho Hynes ($8.00)
The Cronulla halfback was unlucky to miss out last year. He’s started the season with two man‑of‑the‑match performances and is the clear front‑runner. With the Sharks’ favourable early draw, his odds will tighten quickly. $8.00 is a steal.
A‑League – Championship & Top Six Value
The A‑League season is entering its final stretch, with the regular season ending in late April. Futures markets are still open, and there’s value to be found.
Best Bet: Western Sydney Wanderers – Championship ($5.00)
The Wanderers have the best attack in the league, led by the in‑form Joe Lolley. They’ve won six of their last seven and are peaking at the right time. The championship market still has Melbourne City as favourite, but Western Sydney’s momentum makes $5.00 excellent value.
Top Two Finish: Adelaide United ($3.20)
Adelaide sits third on the ladder with games in hand. Their remaining fixtures are favourable, with multiple home games against bottom‑half sides. A top‑two finish (and the AFC Champions League spot that comes with it) is well within reach. $3.20 is generous.
Top Six Insurance: Macarthur FC ($2.10)
Macarthur are seventh, just two points behind sixth, with a game in hand. Their defensive record is solid, and they have a relatively easy run home. $2.10 for a top‑six finish is a safe bet that could pay off comfortably.
Golden Boot: Joe Lolley ($4.00)
Lolley is one goal behind the leader and takes penalties. With the Wanderers’ attacking firepower, he’s a strong chance to overtake the leader. At $4.00, he’s the best value in the market.
Cross‑Code Futures Portfolio
Instead of betting on a single outcome, consider building a portfolio of futures bets that spread risk across codes. Here’s an example using the picks above:
| Bet | Market | Odds | Stake | Potential Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adelaide Crows | AFL Premiership | $12.00 | $20 | $240 |
| Canberra Raiders | NRL Premiership | $15.00 | $20 | $300 |
| Western Sydney Wanderers | A‑League Championship | $5.00 | $30 | $150 |
| Nicho Hynes | NRL Dally M Medal | $8.00 | $20 | $160 |
| GWS Giants | AFL Top 4 | $2.50 | $30 | $75 |
Total Stake: $120
Total Potential Return: $925 (if all hit) – but realistically, a single winner covers the portfolio and then some.
This approach diversifies risk and gives you multiple chances to cash in.
Key Factors to Monitor Before April
- Injuries: A key player injury can derail a team’s season. Check team news before locking in bets.
- Draw difficulty: Teams with easier fixtures in April will build momentum and see their odds shorten.
- Player availability: For player awards, ensure the athlete is not facing a suspension or imminent injury.
- Market movement: If odds drop significantly on a team you like, consider hedging with a smaller stake later.
Conclusion
April is the inflection point for futures markets. By acting now, you can secure odds that will likely disappear once the narrative solidifies. Whether it’s Adelaide’s AFL surge, Canberra’s NRL charge, or Western Sydney’s A‑League momentum, value is there for punters willing to look ahead.
Remember to bet responsibly – futures are long‑term plays, so only stake what you’re comfortable having tied up for weeks. Shop around for the best odds, and consider building a diversified portfolio to spread risk.
Ready to lock in the best futures odds before April?
Top Betting Australia brings you expert insights, the latest market moves, and exclusive betting offers from the country’s most trusted bookmakers.
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Compare futures markets, find value, and bet smarter across AFL, NRL, and A‑League.
Get in early and enjoy the run home! 🏉🏏⚽