Overview
- Between the arcs, a last‑disposal out‑of‑bounds free kick will replace subjective calls, aligning the men’s game with AFLW and SANFL, while insufficient‑intent adjudication remains inside the 50s.
- Umpires can restart play without nominated rucks at stoppages, and rucks at centre ball‑ups cannot cross the centre circle line before engaging, complementing the previously confirmed move to ball‑ups over bounces.
- Time‑saving tweaks include reducing kick‑in allowances from 12 to eight seconds and removing the requirement for a player to start in the goalsquare at centre restarts, with the AFL targeting a small cut in total match length.
- Tighter interpretations will deem a tackle shrug as prior opportunity and require any opponent within five metres to stand, changes welcomed by some but questioned by others for clarity in crowded contests.
- Clubs were also briefed on a 2027 watch list still under consideration, including penalising knee‑drops to draw contact, scrapping the outside‑50 shot clock, removing 6‑6‑6 warnings, and revisiting ruck prior‑opportunity settings.