The SANFL (men and women's competitions) and WAFL have announced rule changes ahead of the 2026 season, helping align the game to the AFL "to ensure consistency with the elite level, supporting player development and transition".
Headed by new football boss Greg Swann, the top-flight committed to seven rule changes in the hope of reducing total game time in 2026.
The removal of the centre bounce, the last-touch rule and the restarting of play led the alterations to speed up the contest.
The South Australian league already had the last-touch rule in place since 2016, which removed boundary throw-ins between the arcs.
Ruck nominations, centre bounce removal, kick-in time, goal square starting position, protected area and shrugging were among the changes.
According to the SANFL EGM of Football Matt Duldig, the changes are set to have a "positive influence" on the game, which ultimately becomes a better product for fans as well as a seamless transition to the AFL level.
"We expect the changes to have a positive influence as they are designed to increase ball-in-play time, reduce match duration, and enhance the viewing experience for fans," Duldig said.
"The simplified rules and interpretations will assist umpires and reduce confusion for players and coaches. It's important to adopt the majority of AFL changes to ensure consistency with the elite level, supporting player development and transition."
The WAFL has joined the neighbouring state, implementing the rule changes. The league will, unlike the SANFL, introduce the 23rd man, seeing an increase in Total Player Payments (TPP) for all 10 clubs.
"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," WA Football Chief Executive Michael Roberts said.
