The AFL has fined GWS football boss Jason McCartney $20,000 following an incident from Saturday's qualifying final involving Sydney player Tom Papley.

The altercation in question saw the duo collide amid a fiery end to the opening quarter of the Swans' eventual six-point victory, with McCartney positioned in the middle of both sets of players as they dispersed from an on-field scuffle to their respective huddles.

McCartney was seen to move toward Papley prior to the pair colliding, with neither McCartney nor Papley retaliating to the incident.

McCartney will still be able to enter the field of play during breaks.

“Jason admitted his conduct on the weekend was unacceptable and that it falls well below what is expected by the AFL and the GIANTS,” AFL General Counsel Stephen Meade said in a statement.

“The AFL took into account and appreciated McCartney's cooperation and contrition during the investigation.

“Opposition officials and players engaging each other on the field of play is something we don't want to see and we are grateful that things didn't escalate further on Saturday.”

The penalty against McCartney comes four years after the GWS general manager was slapped with a $20,000 fine for approaching umpires in their rooms during half-time of a game between the Giants and Western Bulldogs.

McCartney, who is said to have lashed out at match officials, apologised for his actions.

"Those of us fortunate enough to work at the elite level must set an example in the way we show respect towards those officiating our game," McCartney said at the time.

GWS' 2024 finals campaign continues this weekend at Engie Stadium with a semi-final against Brisbane on Saturday night.