How do I report a player or official for a reportable offence?

Boundary umpires must report any player or official who commits a reportable offence (Laws of Australian Football 2026, Law 8.2.2(a)(v) and Law 22). The obligation covers conduct during the match and on match day within the immediate proximity of the arena.

Reportable offences include striking, kicking, kneeing, charging, rough conduct, tripping, spitting, abusive, insulting, threatening or obscene language or gestures, disputing an umpire's decision, and contact with an umpire.

During the match

• Use your best endeavours to tell the person you are reporting, at the time of the incident or before the next quarter starts. If it happens in the last quarter, tell them after the match.
• You may tell the captain, acting captain or a club official if it is impracticable to tell the person.
• Apart from telling them of the report, do not discuss it with the reported person or anyone else.

After the match (AFL National Community Football Policy Handbook, February 2026)

• Complete a Notice of Report and lodge it with the match paperwork to the controlling body no later than 24 hours after the match (or another time the controlling body sets). Keep a copy.
• If you thought a person may have committed an offence but did not report them, complete an Incident Referral Form and lodge it by 5:00pm the next business day.