The Western Bulldogs acknowledge the outcome of the AFL Integrity Unit’s investigation involving Bailey Smith. The Club and Bailey accept the findings and sanctions imposed.

Bailey has been found guilty of conduct unbecoming and has received a two-match suspension.  The AFL has deemed his conduct constitutes a notifiable adverse finding under the AFL’s Illicit Drugs Policy.

The AFL found that Bailey committed a breach of AFL Rule 2.3(a), which states; A Person must not engage in conduct which is unbecoming or likely to prejudice the interests or reputation of the AFL or to bring the game of football into disrepute.

Content was recently posted on social media showing Bailey engaging with an illicit substance late last year.

The two-match ban will commence after his current match-related suspension is served, meaning he will be unavailable for the Bulldogs’ Round 16 and Round 17 games.

“Bailey has shown clear contrition and remorse over recent days, and has spoken openly and maturely about his challenges,” said Bulldogs’ CEO Ameet Bains.

“As we have stated, we do not condone the behaviour in question and remain very disappointed it occurred.

“We are pleased however that Bailey has assumed unqualified responsibility for the mistake he has made and is intent on learning from it.

“We will continue to strongly support Bailey through this difficult period.  Our primary responsibility to him and all of our players is to ensure that their health and wellbeing is safeguarded.”