Ethan Read has made a name for himself as a standout AFL ruck/forward for the Gold Coast Suns.
In this article, uncover his net worth, contract, yearly earnings, relationship, key stats, and career story—from his junior days to rising star status in the AFL.
Ethan Read’s Biography
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ethan Read |
| Date of Birth | July 7, 2005 |
| Age | 20 |
| Education | Palm Beach Currumbin High |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Height | 202 cm |
| Weight | 96 kg (approx.) |
| Turned Pro | 2024 |
| Net Worth | $500,000 AUD |
| Salary/Career Earnings | $600,000 AUD |
| Instagram Profile | @ethan.read.581 |
Early Career
Read emerged as one of Gold Coast’s brightest prospects, standing out early in junior competitions. Born and bred on the Gold Coast, he played for the Palm Beach Currumbin Lions and joined the Suns Academy as a teenager.
His outstanding performances for Queensland at the Under 17 and 18 levels catapulted him into national attention, earning All-Australian Under 18 honours and the prestigious Hunter Harrison Medal during his draft year.
Read’s athleticism, agility for his height, and commitment made him a key figure in the Gold Coast Academy, where he honed his ruckwork and ground skills against emerging elite talent.
Professional Career
Ethan Read made his AFL debut in 2024 after the Gold Coast Suns selected him with pick 9 in the 2023 draft. His debut season showcased strong marking, mobility, and notable endurance, with Read breaking the six-minute barrier in the 2km time trial at the Draft Combine.
By 2025, he had played 19 AFL games, consistently adding goals and high-energy performances as a dual threat in the ruck and forward line. Read’s breakout came in Round 21, 2025, where two goals and career-best stats saw him earn a Rising Star nomination.
His unique blend of height, athleticism, and work ethic signals a bright future as a cornerstone for the Suns.
Ethan Read’s Net Worth Details
As of 2025, Ethan Read’s net worth is estimated to be $500,000 AUD. This figure comes from his AFL salary, match payments, early endorsements, and sponsored appearances.
Contract
Read signed a contract extension with Gold Coast Suns, keeping him at the club through the end of 2028. The long-term commitment reflects the club’s confidence in his development and future value. This extension came after his strong debut season and a bright start to 2025.
Salary
Read’s annual salary is estimated at $180,000–$200,000 AUD, in line with rising stars and young draftees on extended deals. Performance bonuses and match payments may boost this figure, especially after a Rising Star nomination and regular selection across 19 games.
Career Earnings
| Year | Estimated Earnings (AUD) |
|---|---|
| 2024 | $150,000 |
| 2025 | $200,000 |
Career Stats
| Year | Team | Games | Goals | Disposals | Marks | Hit Outs | Tackles |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Gold Coast | 4 | 3 | 18 | 4 | 15 | 1 |
| 2025 | Gold Coast | 15 | 15 | 117* | 50* | 60* | 12* |
| Career | — | 19 | 18 | 135* | 54* | 75* | 13* |
FAQs
1. When did Ethan Read begin his football career, and how did it develop?
He started playing junior football at age nine for Palm Beach Currumbin Lions, then joined the Gold Coast Suns Academy at thirteen. His talent blossomed after an 11 cm growth spurt at age sixteen, propelling him onto national radars and into the AFL National Academy before his 2023 draft selection.
2. What position does Ethan Read play, and what are his notable strengths?
Read plays primarily as a ruckman and forward, noted for his elite aerobic capacity, mobility, and strong marking ability. His stamina, ability to cover the ground, and versatility to play both forward and in defense distinguish him as an outstanding modern AFL player.
3. How was Read recognized during his transition from junior to professional football?
After earning All-Australian honors at the U18 National Championships and winning the Hunter Harrison Medal, Read made a strong impression during his VFL and AFL debuts. He received a Rising Star nomination after a standout game where he kicked two goals and took nine marks.
4. Which AFL team drafted Ethan Read, and what has been his impact there?
The Gold Coast Suns selected him with pick nine in the 2023 AFL Draft, matching a bid from Geelong. Read made his AFL debut in April 2024 and rapidly became a valued player by extending his contract through to 2028, consistently contributing goals and strong performances for the club.
5. Who inspired Ethan Read’s playing style, and how does he aim to improve?
Read models aspects of his game after St Kilda legend Nick Riewoldt, focusing on endurance and outworking opponents. He works to strengthen his physicality to compete against more robust defenders and strives to build a formidable AFL career for the Suns.
