The AFL is poised to implement significant rule changes ahead of the 2026 Toyota AFL Premiership season. These adjustments aim to reduce match length by approximately three minutes, targeting the growing issue of dead time during games.
Key Rule Changes for the 2026 AFL Season
On August 16, 2025, AFL clubs received details of seven major rule changes designed to streamline play and enhance game flow. The new rules, approved by the AFL Commission, will be outlined to the clubs in the coming weeks.
Focus Areas
- Goalsquare starting positions
- Last disposal rules
- Centre ball-up contests
- Aligned kick-in times
- Ruck nominations
- Shrugging in the tackle
- The stand rule
Greg Swann, the AFL’s Executive General Manager of Football Performance, expressed confidence that players will quickly adapt to these changes through practice sessions and coaching support.
Detailed Changes
Goalsquare Starting Position
The requirement for a player from each team to start in the goalsquare after a goal will be eliminated. This change aims to reduce game delays, potentially saving 20-30 seconds per match.
Last Disposal Rule
A free kick will be awarded when the ball crosses the line following a disposal between the arcs. This aligns the men’s game with existing AFLW rules and could lead to a decrease in boundary throw-ins by an average of three per game in 2025.
Centre Ball-Up Contests
Ruckmen will now be prohibited from crossing the centre line before contesting the ball at centre ball-ups. This moves aims to encourage jumping ruckmen and foster an engaging contest.
Aligned Kick-In Times
The time allowed for kick-ins will now match the eight-second limit applied to marks and free kicks elsewhere on the field. Last season, many kick-ins exceeded the current time allowance, and this change is expected to save an additional 21 seconds of match length.
Ruck Nominations
Play can resume without a nominated ruck being present, similar to the AFLW. If no nomination occurs, the umpire will restart play immediately to eliminate delays caused by waiting for rucks.
Shrugging in the Tackle
A shrug will now be regarded as prior opportunity, akin to a fend or evade attempt. This change is intended to simplify umpiring decisions and reduce high tackle incidents.
Stricter Stand Rule Enforcement
Players within five meters of a mark or free kick will be required to ‘stand’ and cannot retreat outside this area. Last season, a staggering 18% of players disregarded this directive; the new enforcement aims to promote a more dynamic game.
These comprehensive rule changes underscore the AFL’s commitment to enhancing the quality and pace of the game. Through engagement with players, coaches, and officials, the league endeavors to create a more efficient on-field experience for both players and fans alike.
