James Tunstill is a professional Australian Rules Footballer who plays for the Brisbane Lions in the AFL.
Known for his hard running and clean hands, he has been part of the Lions’ squad during their successful premiership era. Tunstill enters his fifth season with the club after signing a contract extension.
James Tunstill’s Biography
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | James Tunstill |
| Date of Birth | July 18, 2003 |
| Age | 22 |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Height | 187 cm |
| Weight | 76 kg |
| Turned Pro | 2022 (Debuted) |
| Net Worth | Approx. $200,000 AUD (Estimated) |
| Salary/Earnings | Approx. $140,000+ AUD per season |
| Team | Brisbane Lions |
| Draft | Pick 41, 2021 National Draft |
| Contract Status | Signed until end of 2026 |
| @jamestunstill |
Early Career
James Tunstill grew up in the South West region of Western Australia, specifically in Busselton.
He played his junior football for the Busselton Magpies in the South West Football League (SWFL). His talent was evident early on, and he soon moved up to play for East Perth in the WAFL Colts competition.
At East Perth, Tunstill became a key midfielder. He had a very consistent season in 2021, which caught the eye of AFL recruiters.
He also played for the Western Australian Under-19 team, showing he could perform against the best young players in the country. His hard work paid off when the Brisbane Lions selected him with pick 41 in the 2021 AFL National Draft.
Professional Career
James Tunstill made his AFL debut in Round 15 of the 2022 season against the Melbourne Demons. He played three games in his first season, kicking his first career goal and showing promise as a midfielder.
Over the next few years, breaking into the Brisbane Lions’ team was difficult because their midfield was full of star players like Lachie Neale and Josh Dunkley.
Despite limited games, Tunstill stayed dedicated. He was named an emergency for the 2023 and 2025 AFL Grand Finals. Being an emergency for a Grand Final is a bittersweet role, as it means being one injury away from playing on the biggest stage.
The Lions valued his persistence and talent, rewarding him with a contract extension that keeps him at the club for the 2026 season.
James Tunstill’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, James Tunstill has an estimated net worth of around $200,000 AUD.
Contract
James Tunstill is currently on a one-year contract with the Brisbane Lions that covers the 2026 season. He previously signed a two-year extension in May 2022 that covered 2023 and 2024, followed by short-term deals as he fought for a regular spot in the team.
Salary
As a developing player with limited senior games, Tunstill earns a salary close to the AFL base rate for a 5th-year player. His estimated base salary for 2026 is between $130,000 and $150,000 AUD, plus extra payments for any senior matches he plays.
Career Earnings
| Year | Team | Estimated Earnings (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Brisbane Lions | ~$105,000 + Match Payments |
| 2023 | Brisbane Lions | ~$110,000 + Match Payments |
| 2024 | Brisbane Lions | ~$120,000 + Match Payments |
| 2025 | Brisbane Lions | ~$130,000 + Match Payments |
| 2026 | Brisbane Lions | ~$140,000 (Base Salary) |
Career Stats
| Season | Team | Games | Goals | Behinds | Disposals (Avg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Brisbane Lions | 3 | 1 | 0 | 10.3 |
| 2023 | Brisbane Lions | 2 | 0 | 0 | 6.0 |
| 2024 | Brisbane Lions | 4 | 0 | 0 | ~8.0 |
| 2025 | Brisbane Lions | 3 | 0 | 0 | ~10.0 |
| Total | Brisbane Lions | 12 | 1 | 0 | ~8.5 |
FAQs
1. Which team does James Tunstill play for?
James Tunstill plays for the Brisbane Lions in the Australian Football League as a versatile midfielder and forward. The club added him to their list to bring more speed and skill to the squad.
2. When did he make his AFL debut?
He played his first professional match for the Brisbane Lions during Round 15 of the 2022 season against Melbourne. The coaches selected him for the team after he showed strong form in the state league.
3. What draft pick did the Lions use for Tunstill?
The Brisbane Lions selected James Tunstill with pick number 41 during the 2021 NAB AFL Draft. Recruiters noticed his talent while he played dominant football for his local clubs in Western Australia.
4. Which junior club did James Tunstill play for?
He played his junior football for the Busselton Magpies before he moved to East Perth in the WAFL. His impressive performance at these levels helped him catch the attention of professional scouts.
5. When does his contract with the Lions expire?
James Tunstill signed a contract extension that keeps him at the Brisbane Lions until the end of the 2026 season. This agreement gives him more time to develop his game at the senior level.
RELATED ARTICLES
