What fouls and free kicks apply, and when is a penalty awarded?
Rule- Australia
- Football Australia
- Coles MiniRoos
- MiniRoos Club Football
- Ages 5-11
- Under 6 to Under 11
- 2026
- Referees
All handball, fouls and misconduct are punished with an indirect free kick, with opponents at least 5 metres from the ball. Fouls are: kicking or attempting to kick, tripping or attempting to trip, jumping at, charging, striking or attempting to strike, or pushing an opponent; tackling from behind to gain the ball; contact before touching the ball; holding; spitting at an opponent; deliberate handball; dangerous play; and impeding a player's progress.
- Under 6 and 7: most fouls come from lack of coordination, not intent, so give advantage to the attacking team and play on. For a deliberate or serious act, explain to the child they have done the wrong thing and should not do it again, then award the free kick. There is no penalty area at this level.
- Under 8 to 11: a deliberate or serious foul or handball inside the penalty area is a penalty kick from an 8 metre mark, with only the goalkeeper in position and all others outside the area and at least 5 metres behind the mark.
Source: Coles MiniRoos National Playing Formats and Rules, https://www.miniroos.com.au/club-resources
Updated 24 Oct 2026