AFL set to introduce significant changes to concussion protocol procedure

The AFL's Review Centre (ARC) is set to be given increased authority relating to concussion protocols, giving "concussion spotters" the power to remove players from games.

It will be a significant change to the AFL's current concussion-related procedures, allowing the ARC to act independently from club medical staff, rather than collaboratively.

Under current rules, the AFL's ARC doctors can only order players to come from the field for a concussion test or instruct clubs to watch the vision of potential head injuries, with club doctors making the final call.

However, the changes, which the league intends to implement before the Opening Round, will follow a similar method to the NRL's review bunker, who have been using independent doctors for several years.

According to SEN's Sam Edmund, AFL Executive General Manager of Football Operations, Laura Kane, will propose the rule changes to club bosses on Monday.

The changes come after controversy during the 2025 season, where there were multiple incidents of players appearing to suffer a head knock of concern, yet were not taken from the field to receive a Head Injury Assessment (HIA).

Most notably, Brisbane star Lachie Neale had his head hit the turf of the Adelaide Oval as a result of a dangerous sling tackle from Crows midfielder James Peatling, quickly grabbing his head following the incident.

However, the Lions did not take the dual Brownlow medallist from the field for a concussion test despite the clear head knock.

James Peatling has been handed a one-match suspension for this incident involving Lachie Neale.

Details: https://t.co/5t5eqOxZ52 pic.twitter.com/UgvdRquCPh

— AFL (@AFL) June 7, 2025

Additionally, the AFL introduced its first-ever standards for headgear in Australian Rules football in January, indicating the league's desire to reduce the risk of concussion in the game.