WAFL Joins AFL With Rule Changes For 2026

WA Football can confirm several rule changes will be implemented for the 2026 Sullivan Logistics WAFL season.

All WAFL competitions will align fully with the AFL’s updated Laws of the Game, including associated umpiring processes and interpretations.

The changes are listed below:

1. Discontinuation of the centre bounce
2. Removal of the substitute (AFL Rule), enabling 23 players to be selected for each match.
3. Remove the requirement for a player to start in the goal square at each centre ball-up.
4. Introduce a free kick for the last disposal out of bounds in between the 50m arcs.
5. 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.
6. Around the ground, the Umpire may restart play without a nominated Ruck being present.
7. A shrug (in a tackle) will be deemed prior opportunity (i.e. as an attempt to evade or fend an opponent).
8. A player must stand if they are within the protected area (i.e. within 5m) when a mark or free kick occurs.
9. Align the interpretation of ‘reasonable time’ for a player to bring the football back into play from a behind being scored and the time allowed for a set kick around the ground. Currently, reasonable time for kick-ins is 12 seconds, whereas around the ground it is eight (8) seconds. Players will now be allowed eight seconds in both instances.

WA Football Chief Executive Michael Roberts believes the changes will assist both players and umpires in the WAFL pathway.

“It makes sense for WA Football to align with AFL rule adjustments, giving players and umpires with aspirations to reach the top level the best chance of success,” Roberts said.

With the introduction of a 23rd player for the 2026 Sullivan Logistics WAFL season, the Total Player Payments will increase for each of the 10 clubs.

In the WAFLW competition, Total Players Payments will also rise in 2026, and there will be an increase to the player points allocation for all clubs by a minimum of 10 points.