2026 AFL Barwon On-Field Football Rule Changes

AFL Barwon has confirmed a number of on-field rule changes that will apply across all competitive age competitions for the 2026 season.

These updates reflect the AFL’s recently announced rule amendments, with AFL Barwon adopting four of the nine changes. A summary of the on-field rule adjustments to be implemented next season is outlined below.

Further detail on the applicable rule changes will be provided by the AFL Barwon Umpiring Department once official guidance is received from the AFL.

Clubs will also have the opportunity to receive additional information on these competition rule changes in person at the AFL Barwon Club Education Event on Sunday, March 1.

Last Disposal

Introduce a Free Kick for the last disposal Out of Bounds in between the 50m arcs. This rule interpretation will replace the last possession rule that is officiated across competitions.

Centre Ball Up Contests

At all centre ball-ups, a competing Ruck cannot cross the Centre Circle line and engage with the opposition Ruck, prior to contesting the football.

Shrugging in the Tackle

A shrug (in a tackle) will be deemed Prior Opportunity (i.e. an attempt to evade or fend an opponent).

Ruck Nominations

Around the ground, the umpire may restart play without a nominated Ruck present. The aim is to get play starting again as soon as possible once the area is clear.