The amendments for 2009 were made following our annual review. Feedback from the 16 clubs and the AFL Players’ Association on the new Tribunal system since its inception has been overwhelmingly positive and constructive. The basic structure of the system established in 2004 has not altered, and the changes for 2009 reflect feedback received and knowledge gained from the first four years of the system’s operation.

A number of high quality submissions were received from clubs, the AFLPA, the AFL Umpires’ Association and those currently involved in the Tribunal system at the end of the 2008 season.

The guiding principles of the Tribunal system introduced in 2005 are:

• To improve the efficiency of the Tribunal process by introducing a system whereby players can accept penalties without having to appear before the Tribunal.
• To promote the transparency and certainty of the process by introducing of a table of offences.
• To achieve greater consistency in the reporting process by introducing of a Match Review Panel through which all reports will proceed.
• To increase the number of respected former AFL players, coaches and umpires involved in the Tribunal and reporting processes.
• To reduce the damage done to the credibility of the Tribunal process by limiting victim players’ evidence.
• To increase the range of representation available to players and the AFL by permitting legal representation.
• To increase the efficiency of dealing with melee and wrestling reports.
• To update and improve the technology available to the Match Review Panel and the Tribunal.
• To lessen the financial barrier for appeals.

AFL Tribunal System (.pdf)