What counts as a fall, and what happens after one?

Rider fall in the competition arena: the rider is separated from the horse, voluntarily or not, so that they touch the ground or need support or outside assistance to get back in the saddle. If it is unclear, the benefit of doubt goes to the rider.

Rider fall outside the arena: the rider is separated from the horse involuntarily. Dismounting voluntarily is not a fall.

Horse fall: the shoulder and quarters have touched the ground, or the obstacle and the ground.

A fall of the horse and/or rider during a round is Elimination. After a fall anywhere on the event grounds, the rules require checks, and the Ground Jury can exclude the rider and/or horse from further competition. In addition, if the rider falls after crossing the finish line, the rider must be checked by the event's medical service and/or the horse by the Veterinary Delegate before taking part in any further competition at the event.

Source: Equestrian Australia National Jumping Rules, effective 1 January 2026, Art 217 and 248.