Aaron Hall has today announced his retirement from the game, effective immediately.

After 12 seasons across two clubs, and 161 AFL games, the 32-year-old has called time after managing an Achilles issue across recent months.

Hall arrived at Arden Street during the 2018 trade period after 103 games and seven seasons with the Gold Coast Suns.

Five seasons at North Melbourne saw Hall play as a running defender across 58 games in the royal blue and white.

Hall addressed his teammates at Arden Street on Wednesday morning.

"I’ll look back in time and I’ll be proud of the resilience I’ve shown to be able to get through and forge a career," Hall said.

"You’re not promised anything in footy. You’re not promised silverware, you’re not promised wins. But what you can do is give everything you can.

"When you’re an old fossil like me and you’re standing in front of everyone saying goodbye, you can wholeheartedly say you’ve given everything.

"I’ve had a blast. I could never have dreamed of this and I’m looking forward to the next phase of my life."

North Melbourne general manager of football Todd Viney said despite injury setbacks, Hall continued to make a contribution in any way he could.

"Aaron has battled more injuries than most across his career, but what has never wavered is his want for the team to be better," Viney said.

"Football has been a big part of Aaron’s life for a long period of time and he’s made a significant contribution to the North Melbourne Football Club.

"These decisions aren’t easy to make, but Aaron has done so with the support of his family and the club. We wish Aaron and his family the best as they embark on their next chapter."