Only 24 more days until the NRL season starts and it controls my emotional state for another 7-months.
The NRL Telstra Premiership kicks off in Las Vegas on the 1st of March and I can’t wait a second longer for league to return. But whilst teams have been training and getting ready for the 2026 season, the Australian Rugby League Commission has confirmed some new on-field rule changes for the 2026 Telstra Premiership season.
Announced via a media release distributed this morning, the ARLC has confirmed a package of new on-field rule changes for the 2026 season. In the release they disclosed these rule changes were made after following an extensive consultation process that included the clubs, players, coaches and key stakeholders.
You may have heard that the NRL was considering changing the kick-off rule, which would have allowed the conceding team after a try to decide whether they themselves would take the kick-off or receive the kick-off. The ARLC has decided to not put this new rule in place and the kick-off rule will stay as it currently is. However, the ARLC has endorsed a trial period in which the proposed rule can play in several games only when the game has no bearing on the finals season, allowing further consideration for this proposed rule change.
“The consultation process was thorough and constructive, and while there was initial support for the kick-off proposal, stakeholders raised legitimate concerns… after weighing that feedback carefully, the Commission determined that it was not in the best interests of the game to proceed with that particular rule change at this time” – ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys AM
Now, the actual new rule changes for the 2026 season can be found below!
- 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 time 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.
- Restarting the tackle count: For certain infringements beyond the 20-metre line, the tackle count will restart, replacing the current 40-metre threshold.
ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys AM has made several comments sharing that these decisions reflect the Commissions commitment to a consultive approach to rule changes. Ensuring that rule changes always benefited and looked after the game and the key players and staff involved.
“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.” – ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys AM
