AFLW matches will be longer and interchanges will be capped at 60 per game as part of four rule changes introduced ahead of the 2023 season.

In short, the four rule changes are: 

  • Quarters extended by about two minutes, depending on stoppages
  • Interchanges capped at 60 per game
  • Boundary throw-ins to take place from the boundary inside the 50m arcs
  • Runners can only enter the field three times per quarter, plus after goals 

FULL STATEMENT AFL Commission approves rule changes for 2023 NAB AFLW season

Game time extended

Quarters will run for about two minutes longer, a move which has long been seen as a win by clubs in order to boost scoring, with a hefty chunk of goals in men's games coming in the final few minutes of quarters as players tire.

Each quarter will now run for 15 minutes plus time-on for goals or major injuries, with the final two minutes of each quarter also holding time for match stoppages.

Games will still run within a two-hour window, with quarter-time and three-quarter time breaks reduced by thirty seconds to six minutes, and half-time cut from 16 to 14 minutes.

Fremantle players in a huddle during the clash with Hawthorn in round 10, AFLW S7 2022. Picture: AFL Photos

Limit on interchanges

Conversely, the new interchange cap of 60 is understood to be a contentious decision among clubs. Teams that joined the AFLW in 2022 are expected to be most adversely affected, given they will have just two pre-seasons under their belt.

The inaugural eight AFLW teams are currently completing their eighth pre-season, with experienced players subsequently capable of significantly higher running loads.

Clubs will be allowed use "interchange boards" to deliver messages from the bench, which has seen AFL men's teams employ a variety of unusual, pre-agreed symbols to communicate tactics and switches in styles of play.

Richmond players on the interchange bench in AFLW round four, 2020. Picture: AFL Photos

Boundary throw-ins moved

The third rule change will alter the position of boundary umpires' throw-ins when inside 50.

In previous seasons, the boundary umpire would come in 10 metres before throwing in the ball, which created greater space around the stoppage for the most part, and reduced the need for secondary ball-ups.

The boundary umpires will still move in 10 metres between the arcs, but will return to their customary positions on the line when inside 50.

A boundary umpire throws the ball in during 2021 AFLW game between Richmond and Melbourne. Picture: AFL Photos

Use of runners capped

The final rule change limits runners to entering the field three times a quarter until the final three minutes per term, for a maximum of 90 seconds, as well as any time after a goal is scored for a "short period".

Runners have not been previously limited, seen as an educational tool for the developing competition.

There have also been some adjustments to the Match Review fines system.

A two-year roll-over period for classifiable offences will be introduced, meaning players committing the same offence more than once in a two-year period will have their fines increase, rather than just within the same season, as is currently the case. 

Fines are ratioed to match AFLW wages, rather at the level of AFL men's fines.

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"These rule adjustments will give supporters more of what they love – a balance between attack and defence, improved strategic tension, and encourage more instinctive play," AFL acting executive general manager of football Laura Kane said. 

"We have undertaken an extensive consultation process as we worked through these adjustments, including thorough discussions with AFLW senior coaches, AFLW competition committee, and the AFLPA. 

"Restricting runners’ access, extending quarter lengths, and introducing an interchange cap is designed to open up the game, which provides an opportunity for players to compete with more flair and have greater freedom to play on instinct.

"Adjustments to the location of the boundary throw ins within the 50 metre arcs will create more opportunities for teams to score from stoppages, while changes to our low-level sanctions for reportable offences will further prioritise the health and safety of AFLW players. 

"On behalf of the AFL, I would like to thank all 18 clubs, the AFLW competition committee, the AFLPA, the AFLCA, and our broadcaster partners for their support."

Current rule differences between the AFL and AFLW

  • A smaller ball is used (size four, compared to the men's size five). Consequently, the centre bounce is instead a throw-up
  • AFLW teams field 16 per side and five on the bench, rather than 18 and four (plus a tactical substitute)
  • This means AFLW teams line up 5-6-5 after a goal, compared to 6-6-6
  • Last disposal between the arcs is in play if it is a clear kick or handball. If disputed, a throw-in is called