Richmond will play three AFL home games against the Gold Coast Suns in Cairns over the next three seasons.

The Tigers will line up for one game a season against the AFL'S newest team at an upgraded Cazaly's Stadium from 2011-13.

AFL boss Andrew Demetriou said the deal highlighted the importance of Far North Queensland to the league's expansion plans.

"The AFL is very excited to be able to take premiership matches into far-north Queensland for the first time," Demetriou said.

"We are very grateful to the Queensland government through Queensland Events as well as the Federal and local governments for providing the necessary funds to upgrade what is already a great place to play our game, Cazaly's Stadium.

"Not only will an upgraded Cazaly's allow us to play premiership season matches between Richmond and Gold Coast in the region each year, but it will improve the training facilities for our talent, school and AFL Cairns programs run throughout the year."

Richmond football manager Craig Cameron said the club was looking forward to the new program.

"We are really happy to be part of such a big step forward for our game in far-north Queensland," Cameron said.

"To be able to take the Richmond brand into such an important market as well as provide a new experience for our young playing group is fantastic.

"For us, it is the best of both worlds - it gives our fans in Queensland a chance to see us live and we have protected the rights of our members who will still have access to 11 games in Melbourne."

Cazaly's Stadium will be upgraded to bring the facilities for fans, players and officials up to AFL standards, including new change rooms and media facilities.

Lights suitable for televised night games will be added in time for the 2012 match.

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