The AFL's Indigenous All-Stars match, which was due to be played next month, has been delayed until 2019 after a decision was made to play the game every four years instead of two.

A team composed solely of Indigenous players has played an AFL club in a pre-season fixture biennially since 2003. The matches have mainly been played in the Northern Territory, although the most recent fixture in 2015 between the All Stars and West Coast was played at Perth's Medibank Stadium.

Richmond's Daniel Jackson is pursued by All Star Eddie Betts in 2013. Credit:Getty Images

The game had coincided with the AFL Players' Association's Indigenous players camp. But while that camp will be held this week in Western Australia's Kimberley region, there won't be an accompanying game.

The AFLPA said the move to extend the gap between the matches came after feedback from players. The union said its Indigenous player advisory board – led by Hawthorn veteran Shaun Burgoyne – had been keen to ensure the camp provided an opportunity for the players to connect with their culture and help promote discussion about issues impacting Indigenous players. The sessions during the camp will be player driven and will have a heavy focus on education about life as an AFL footballer.