The Next Generation Australian Football Match Policy covers how to conduct the game for players aged 5-18 years so that junior participants and their families get the best Australian Football experience. The policy is divided into the:
AFL Junior Policy (5-12 year olds)
AFL Youth Policy (13-18 year olds)
The policy aims to:
Provide clear direction to leagues and clubs for the provision of appropriate pathways for all boys and girls in safe, enjoyable and accountable environments.
Ensure that junior football is delivered in a uniform manner across all States and Territories.
Maximise the recruitment and retention of players and umpires through programs and match rules appropriate to each age level (and meets the needs of children - they are not little adults).
The policy was developed in 2008 by the Australian Football League in collaboration with State football bodies and the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) and is considered a significant and critical step in supporting Australian Football at this level.