NRL 2026 Rule Changes - Interchange Squads Extended to 6 players and 20m 6-Again Threshold

4th February 2026

The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) has today confirmed a package of on-field rule changes for the 2026 season, following an extensive consultation process with clubs, players, coaches and key stakeholders. After careful consideration of feedback received during the consultation period, the ARLC has decided not to proceed with the proposed kick-off rule change, which would have allowed the conceding team the option to kick off or receive the kick-off following a try. The ARLC acknowledged the strong engagement from stakeholders and noted that, while the proposal was initially supported in principle, consultation identified a number of concerns. Accordingly, the existing kick-off arrangements will remain in place for the 2026 season.

Following consultation, the ARLC has approved the introduction of the following on-field rule changes for the 2026 season:

Trainer rules – Trainers will be restricted from entering the field of play to prescribed and clearly defined circumstances. This will ensure player safety remains the priority while reducing unnecessary intrusions by Trainers carrying messages.

Interchange rules – Teams may interchange four players, up to eight times per match, from a squad of six players (players 14 to 19 inclusive).

Accidental breach (“zero tackle”) in-goal – There will be no seven-tackle set following a knock-on in-goal by the attacking team.

6-Again Extension to 20m from 40m - Restarting the tackle count – For certain infringements beyond the 20-metre line, the tackle count will restart, replacing the current 40-metre threshold.

The ARLC has also endorsed a trial of a proposed rule regarding the non-scoring team having the option of kicking-off or receiving from the restart. The change will be trialled in games with no bearing on the finals at the back end of the 2026 season before further consideration. Further education materials and officiating guidance will be provided to clubs and match officials ahead of the 2026 season.

ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys AM said the decision reflected the Commission’s commitment to a consultative approach to rule changes. The consultation process was thorough and constructive, and while there was initial support for the kick-off proposal, stakeholders raised legitimate concerns," Mr V’landys said. "After weighing that feedback carefully, the Commission determined that it was not in the best interests of the game to proceed with that particular change at this time. The changes that are being implemented are intended to build on the success of the 2025 season by enhancing the entertainment value for fans, while also providing additional tactical options for coaches. The game is in a brilliant place. The players are producing incredible feats and the fans are responding. These changes will enhance the game further and continue to ensure this is the best and most watched sport in the country."

Ref - NRL [Viewed 5 Feb 2026] / FN-2

State of Origin International Rules Modernised (Tier 1 Exclusions Removed)

16th February 2026

The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) today announced the modernisation of State of Origin international eligibility rules to reflect the continued growth and global strength of Rugby League. Under the updated rules, any player who meets the existing State of Origin eligibility criteria will be able to play State of Origin, regardless of the nation they represent in international fixtures.

Previously, players were required to be eligible to represent Australia or a Tier Two nation as defined by International Rugby League (IRL). The updated rules remove this restriction, allowing players who represent Tier One nations — and who meet the traditional State of Origin criteria — to now be eligible. The change reflects the strength of the international game and the significant growth of Rugby League, particularly across the Pacific.

Core State of Origin eligibility criteria remain unchanged:

  • The player was born in New South Wales or Queensland; or
  • The player resided in New South Wales or Queensland prior to their 13th birthday; or
  • The player’s father played State of Origin.

    ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys AM said the changes were a necessary and logical evolution for the game in 2026. "Rugby League has changed, the international game has grown, and our rules need to reflect that," Mr V’landys said. "If a player is eligible to play State of Origin, it makes no sense to exclude them simply because they’ve represented New Zealand or England at Test level. State of Origin is about where you’re from and what State you’re eligible for — not which country you represent internationally. If you’re eligible, you should be able to play for your State. Over 45 years, State of Origin has developed into something special, and we want the best players playing if they’re eligible. The Commission has a responsibility to grow both the international game and State of Origin, and this change strengthens both."

    Ref - NRL [Viewed 17 Feb 2026] / FN-2

    NRL Appoints Off Field Incident Independant Decision Maker(IDM)

    19th February 2026

    The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) has today confirmed the appointment of an Independent Decision Maker (IDM) for off field integrity related matters under the NRL Rules, marking a significant step in strengthening the game’s integrity framework. The Independent Decision Maker model has been approved by the ARLC following extensive consultation with Clubs and the Rugby League Players' Association (RLPA) and will come into effect from 26 February 2026.

    Under the new framework the IDM will make determinations on all off-field matters, with the exception of matters relating to the NRL’s Anti-Doping Rules, Drug Testing Policy and Anti-Vilification Code as those rules each contain their own established disciplinary processes. The Judiciary Code (on-field matters) remains governed by its established disciplinary process. The NRL has appointed the Honourable Geoffrey Bellew AM SC, former Justice of the Supreme Court and current Chairperson of the NRL Judiciary, to be the inaugural IDM. In his capacity as the IDM, Mr Bellew will make the final determination on any off field disciplinary matter which is governed by the breach notice or show cause notice process under the NRL Rules.

    Key elements of the process:

  • The NRL Integrity Unit will continue to investigate all matters within its current jurisdiction.
  • All individuals and Clubs subject to a breach notice or show cause notice retain the right to respond to that notice before a determination is issued and retain the right to appeal any determination to the NRL Appeals Committee (provided leave to appeal is granted).
  • The NRL CEO has the right to make submissions to the IDM on a matter before the IDM. Further, the NRL CEO will have a right to appeal a decision of the IDM.
  • The No-Fault Stand Down, as well as decisions to register a Player or other person under the NRL Rules, remains within the remit of the NRL CEO.

    Ref - NRL [Viewed 20 Feb 2026] / FN-2

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