GOLD Coast has been given a suspended fine after key forward Dekota Baron was allowed to return to the field following a concussion check.

The 19-year-old had initially been cleared by the Suns after a heavy knock, but the ARC overruled and Baron was then pulled from the field again.

It's understood a breakdown in process allowed Baron to return, with the Suns needing to check in again with the ARC before sending the forward back onto the field.

Gold Coast was issued a "please explain" by the AFL at the start of the week.

"The AFL can advise that the Gold Coast Suns have been issued a $10,000 suspended sanction for failing to comply with section 5.6 of the AFL and AFLW Concussion Guidelines," an AFL spokesperson said.

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"The sanction was determined after the Suns were issued a request for information letter following an incident involving Dekota Baron during the first quarter of the Gold Coast Suns' Round 11 AFLW match against Richmond at People First Stadium.

"Following a club process failure, the SUNS incorrectly permitted Baron to return to the field of play.

"The sanction will be suspended until the conclusion of the 2027 AFLW Season."

Gold Coast has placed Baron in concussion protocols for the upcoming round.

"The health and safety of players is paramount, and pleasingly, Dekota has shown no adverse signs on gameday or the days following," a Gold Coast spokesperson said.

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"During Saturday’s match, communication from the ARC was not immediately seen whilst our medical team was providing treatment to another player.

"Once that information was received, steps to remove Dekota from the field were immediately enacted.

"We accept the AFL’s decision, noting it was a matter of process failure."

Gold Coast play Greater Western Sydney on Sunday, and remain in the mix for a top-four spot.