AFL clubs have until the end of next month to convince the AFL they should be awarded one of up to eight licences in the inaugural national women's league to be played early next year.

The league hopes to have the make-up of the competition set by the middle of the year, and has asked for feedback on proposed initial list-build rules that could allow each club to sign two "marquee" players.

The Bulldogs and Melbourne are thought to be among the front-runners for the national women's league. Credit:Getty Images

Clubs were sent a discussion paper about the new competition on Monday, and advised of the five areas in which they must prove their suitability for one of the initial licences.

While the AFL will fund player payments and operational expenses for at least the first year of the competition, at an estimated cost of around $500,000 a team, clubs who have worked to establish their own corporate support will have an advantage.