The AFL will mandate strict contact training limits across all clubs starting in 2027, a move driven by a 2023 coroner’s inquest into the death of former Richmond player Shane Tuck. According to the league, these new regulations aim to mitigate concussion risks by categorizing training drills based on contact intensity. The AFL Commission must still approve final parameters, which will be developed by a newly formed consultation group including club doctors, high-performance managers, and player representatives.
How will contact training limits change AFL practice?
The AFL plans to categorize every training drill into a tiered system, ranging from non-contact warm-ups to high-density match simulations. AFL chief operating officer Tom Harley and healthcare lead Laura Kane have indicated the focus will remain on the design of training sessions rather than a simple reduction in total volume. Research conducted by the league since 2024 shows no correlation between increased contact training and improved on-field performance, providing a data-driven justification for the policy shift.
Did you know? The AFL’s internal research identified that players face a higher statistical risk of concussion during pre-season training sessions compared to in-season matches.
Why is the AFL reconsidering its fixture model?
The league is currently evaluating four distinct fixture structures to accommodate the entry of the Tasmania Devils in 2028. According to Tom Harley, the AFL is canvassing feedback from club CEOs and football directors to weigh options that include traditional home-and-away formats, group-stage competitions, and potential in-season tournaments. While presidents have discussed these models, Harley noted there are "reasonably divergent views" among club leaders, necessitating further iteration before a final decision is reached by round one of the 2028 season.
What is the league’s policy on integrity investigations?
The AFL’s integrity unit operates primarily on a complaint-driven basis, according to Tom Harley. This clarification follows public scrutiny regarding the league’s decision not to launch an investigation into allegations involving the Melbourne Football Club and a privacy dispute currently before the Federal Court. Harley stated that when the league is alerted to potential issues, officials specifically ask if a formal complaint is being lodged. This approach differs from previous instances where the AFL exercised its discretion to investigate matters of broad industry concern without a formal request.
Will Carlton retain Josh Fraser as head coach?
Former Carlton coach Michael Voss expects current interim coach Josh Fraser to be included in the Blues’ formal selection process for a permanent senior coach. Despite Fraser’s initial statements ruling himself out of the long-term role, his performance—leading the team to five consecutive wins—has shifted the internal conversation. Carlton’s leadership, including CEO Graham Wright and football boss Chris Davies, is utilizing a selection panel that features West Coast premiership coach Adam Simpson to avoid the pitfalls of past "interim" appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do the new contact training limits begin?
The limits will apply starting from the 2027 pre-season for both the AFL and AFLW competitions.
Why did the AFL decide to limit training contact?
The decision follows recommendations from state coroner John Cain, who presided over the 2023 inquest into the death of Shane Tuck and advised the league to reduce concussion risks during training.
Is the AFL fixture model for 2028 finalized?
No. The league is still weighing four different models and expects to settle on a final structure by the start of the 2028 season.
How does the AFL trigger an integrity investigation?
According to Tom Harley, the process is fundamentally complaint-driven, with the league requiring a formal request before moving to investigate specific matters.
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