The AFL is reportedly planning to introduce a fourth field umpire for matches from next season in a plan reportedly set to cost $1.5 million.
The move would see the total number of league umpires rise from 34 to 42, while emergency umpires will also be abolished, per football journalist Caroline Wilson on Footy Classified.
Wilson reported that adding more umpires would reduce the physical toll on match officials and allow more women to start umpiring.
Wilson said the a large contingent of the current umpiring cohort are in support of the AFL's plans.
"Eighty per cent of the umpires are thrilled. It means more umpires on the list," Wilson said.
"This has been too long coming."
Caro exclusively reveals to Footy Classified that umpiring is set for a major shake-up from 2023, and has flagged that there could be an increase to five or even six onfield umpires within the next five years. #9FootyClassified | @Channel9 pic.twitter.com/IviMCK3KKE
— Footy on Nine (@FootyonNine) August 17, 2022
"I think the AFL commission and the executive has finally listened and realised this is a crisis in our game and they need to fix it.
"The big thing about next year is to reduce the physical toll on umpires. Theyโll still run the same distance, but there wonโt be the need for speed.
"Itโs seen as a way to bring more women into the game and umpiringโฆ women canโt hope to run the speed and distances that the men can in this physical game."
Former AFL coach Ross Lyon endorsed the proposal, adding that it should improve the quality of match officiating.
"It would mean better decision-making because they're less fatigued and you can keep your better umpires umpiring," Lyon said.
"Players adapt and there would be less holding.
"There will be more goals scored because the infringements would be blown. At either end, you wonโt get away with anything."
Wilson also reported that the league is interested in removing the centre bounce, which is seen as a barrier to ensuring the league has the best quality umpires. But a decision has not been made.
The AFL also embodies a long-term view to field five or six umpires going forward.
