The first All Australian concept was pioneered by Sporting Life magazine. A squad from all footballing states was selected annually in October from 1947 until 1955 by a panel of experts. Respected South Australian Peter Argent has researched the information.

At the conclusion of the 1953 Australian Football Carnival held in Adelaide, the first official All Australian team was selected from the best performed players. The practice continued until the 1988 Bicentenary Carnival in Adelaide.

In 1982, the first AFL team of the year was chosen by the Victorian selectors. With the development of the national competition, the concept was changed slightly and in 1991, the first AFL All Australian Team was selected.