McLachlan used his welcome speech at Sunday night's Brownlow Medal count in Perth to implore players and fans.

"For those who play our game or follow our game at every level right across our football community, please go and get vaccinated," he said.

"So we can once more unite as families, as friends, as work colleagues, as footy fans, as neighbours, as communities - as one."

The comments were met with warm applause at the Optus Stadium Brownlow function.

Earlier this month, McLachlan said it was unlikely the AFL would make COVID-19 shots compulsory for players and club staff.

But the league has made its pro-vaccination position clear.

Likewise, while the AFLPA has concerns about compulsory jabs for players, its president Patrick Dangerfield is among a growing number of stars who advocate vaccination.

The AFL hopes full crowds will return across the country at some point next year after two tough seasons of restrictions, but recognises high vaccination rates will be crucial for that to happen.

For the second year the Brownlow was impacted heavily by the pandemic.

With the grand final moved to Perth because of Melbourne's ongoing lockdown and border restrictions, the Brownlow also headed west.

Grand finalists Melbourne and Western Bulldogs had contingents at Optus Stadium, but they were isolated in separate rooms away from the main Brownlow function to abide by WA's strict COVID-19 protocols.

Another Brownlow function was held in Brisbane, while separate players in Melbourne and Sydney were shown on video links.

Richmond's Jack Riewoldt raised laughs at the main Brownlow function when he was seen at home, in a tuxedo, enjoying a cuppa as he watched the count.

Australian Associated Press