How do the six-tackle count and the pass rules work for kids?

Every junior age group gets a set of 6 tackles (or 6 tags in tag football) to use the ball before it changes hands. The referee calls the count and signals the "5th and last". A zero tackle follows the same rules as the international game.

The rules that shape play by age:

• Under 6 and Under 7: a minimum of 1 pass. If the dummy half runs, is tagged or tackled and does not score, the team loses the ball. There are no markers, and defenders stand back 5 metres. In Under 6 only, a knock-on, forward pass or running into touch is a "chance": play carries on and the count moves up by one.
• Under 8 and Under 9: a minimum of 2 passes before a player can be tackled in possession, unless the player is wearing a vest. Under 8 uses a yellow vest for first receiver (no markers). Under 9 adds a second vest for dummy half and one marker.
• Under 10 to Under 12: the two-pass rule applies with vests for first receiver and dummy half, and one marker at the play-the-ball.

Vests must be rotated at the end of each period (each quarter or half), and a player who has worn a vest cannot wear it again that game.

Source: Junior Rugby League Laws 6-12 years (Official 2026), https://www.playrugbyleague.com/media/18199/2026-national-6-12-junior-league-laws.pdf