The AFL draft will return to the Gold Coast for three seasons from next year.

One of the biggest events on the AFL calendar, the draft was held in the city last year prior to the Gold Coast Suns' entry to the competition this season.

This year's draft will be held in western Sydney ahead of Greater Western Sydney's debut next season.

Queensland Premier Anna Bligh said the decision to return to Gold Coast from 2012 highlighted the success of the AFL's expansion into the city.

"This is big news for Queensland AFL fans and the first time the draft has been held outside of Victoria for an extended period of time," Bligh said.

"After the draft was held here so successfully in 2010, the AFL just couldn't resist a return to this great city, which hasn't been shy in showing its love for this great sport."

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