Editing Australian rules football (section)

==Laws of the game==
{{Main|Laws of Australian rules football}}
{{For|terminology|Glossary of Australian rules football}}
{{See also|Australian football tactics and skills}}
{{See also|Australian rules football positions}}

===Players and equipment===
[[File:Akec Makur Chuot 26.01.20.jpg|thumb|upright|A uniform consists of a [[guernsey (Australian rules football)|guernsey]], shorts, socks and boots.]]
In a standard match, a team may consist of anywhere between 14 and 18 players who may be permitted on the playing surface at any given time. Each team may have up to four [[Interchange (Australian rules football)|interchange]] (reserve) players who may be swapped for those on the field at any time during the game.<ref>{{cite web |title=Pre-Match Provisions – Teams and Players |url=https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=21 |work=Laws of Australian Football 2022 |publisher=AFL |access-date=3 March 2024 |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143302/https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=21 |url-status=live }}</ref> Although some leagues in less populated areas may use as few as 12 players.<ref>{{cite news |title=Kick in hope |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-08-04/king-islands-football-league-is-fighting-to-survive/102523518 |first1=Jeremy |last1=Story Carter |newspaper=ABC News |date=3 August 2023 |access-date=27 March 2024 |archive-date=27 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240327074036/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-08-04/king-islands-football-league-is-fighting-to-survive/102523518 |url-status=live }}</ref> In addition, some leagues notably including the AFL, have each team designate one additional player as a substitute who can be used to make a single permanent exchange of players during a game for either medical or tactical reasons.<ref>{{cite web |title=No vests: AFL reveals details of revamped sub rule |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/872015/no-vests-afl-reveals-details-of-revamped-sub-rule |first1=Michael |last1=Rogers |website=afl.com.au |access-date=3 March 2024 |language=en |date=21 December 2022 |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143302/https://www.afl.com.au/news/872015/no-vests-afl-reveals-details-of-revamped-sub-rule |url-status=live }}</ref>

Players on the playing surface can be swapped with those on the interchange bench at any time. They must though pass through a designated "Interchange Area".<ref name="Interchange">{{cite web |title=Pre-Match Provisions – Interchange |url=https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=25 |work=Laws of Australian Football 2022 |publisher=AFL |access-date=3 March 2024 |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143302/https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=25 |url-status=live }}</ref> In the event a player fails to pass through this area correctly, or if too many players from one team are found to be on the ground at a time, a [[Free kick (Australian rules football)|free kick]] will be awarded to the opposing side.<ref name="Interchange" /><ref>{{cite web |title=Pre-Match Provisions – Counting of Players |url=https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=23 |work=Laws of Australian Football 2022 |publisher=AFL |access-date=3 March 2024 |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143302/https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=23 |url-status=live }}</ref>

While there is no set uniform, the basic equipment for Australian football consists of a guernsey, shorts, socks and boots, with additional pieces of apparel such as headbands and gloves additionally being permitted.<ref>{{cite web |title=Clubs and Uniforms |url=https://s.afl.com.au/staticfile/AFL%20Tenant/AFL/Files/AFL%20Regulations%20effective%209%20May%202019.pdf#page=25 |work=Australian Football League Regulations |publisher=AFL |access-date=3 March 2024 |archive-date=11 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201111183616/https://s.afl.com.au/staticfile/AFL%20Tenant/AFL/Files/AFL%20Regulations%20effective%209%20May%202019.pdf#page=25 |url-status=live }}</ref> Players may wear certain pieces of protective equipment, such as helmets or arm guards, if approved by the relevant controlling body.<ref name="ProtectiveEquip">{{cite web |title=Pre-Match Provisions – Protective Equipment |url=https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=30 |work=Laws of Australian Football 2022 |publisher=AFL |access-date=3 March 2024 |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143302/https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=30 |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Mouthguard]]s are strongly recommended for all players.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Role of helmets & mouthguards in Australian Football |url=https://s.afl.com.au/staticfile/AFL%20Tenant/AFL/Files/Respect%20and%20Responsibility/Role_of_helmets_and_mouthgaurds.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240403011436/https://s.afl.com.au/staticfile/AFL%20Tenant/AFL/Files/Respect%20and%20Responsibility/Role_of_helmets_and_mouthgaurds.pdf |archive-date=Apr 3, 2024 |website=AFL.com.au}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2006-07-31 |title=Mouthguards Insure Against Injury |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/536963/mouthguards-insure-against-injury |first1=Gordon S. |last1=Lynch |website=afl.com.au |language=en |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240403011437/https://www.afl.com.au/news/536963/mouthguards-insure-against-injury |archive-date= Apr 3, 2024 }}</ref>

Players are not permitted to wear jewellery, or other materials which the [[Umpire (Australian rules football)|field umpire]] has deemed to be either potentially dangerous or increase the risk of injury to other players.<ref name="ProtectiveEquip" />

===Ball===
[[File:Sherrin footy.jpg|thumb|A [[Sherrin]] Kangaroo Brand [[Football (ball)#Australian rules football|football]]. Sherrin is the official game ball of the [[Australian Football League]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Corporate Partners |url=https://www.afl.com.au/about-afl/partners/corporate |website=afl.com.au |access-date=3 March 2024 |language=en |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143302/https://www.afl.com.au/about-afl/partners/corporate |url-status=live }}</ref>]]
Australian rules football is played with an ellipsoid ball, between {{cvt|72|and|73|cm|in}} in long circumference, and {{cvt|54.5|and|55.5|cm|in}} in short circumference.<ref name="BallLaw">{{cite web |title=Pre-Match Provisions – The Football |url=https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=21 |work=Laws of Australian Football 2022 |publisher=AFL |access-date=3 March 2024 |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143302/https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=21 |url-status=live }}</ref> For women's competitions, a smaller ball size of {{cvt|69|and|53|cm|in}} is used.<ref>{{cite web |title=Size Chart |url=https://www.sherrin.com.au/size-chart |website=Sherrin |access-date=3 March 2024 |language=en |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143303/https://www.sherrin.com.au/size-chart |url-status=live }}</ref> The ball must be inflated to a pressure of {{convert|69|kPa|psi|1|abbr=off}}.<ref name="BallLaw" /> There are no defined laws regarding what material a ball must be made from, but standard AFL match-used balls are produced by [[Sherrin]] using cowhide leather.<ref>{{cite web |title=Frequently Asked Questions |url=https://www.sherrin.com.au/faq |website=Sherrin |access-date=3 March 2024 |language=en |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143304/https://www.sherrin.com.au/faq |url-status=live }}</ref>

While there is no standard colour of the ball, red and yellow are most common and the only colours used at AFL level. Yellow is used for games beginning after 3&nbsp;pm or in an enclosed stadium, due to its greater visibility, and to assist score reviews.<ref>Ryan, Peter (21 August 2015). [https://www.afl.com.au/news/197406/is-red-nearly-dead-yellow-sherrins-making-their-move "Is red nearly dead? Yellow Sherrins making their move"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240327074413/https://www.afl.com.au/news/197406/is-red-nearly-dead-yellow-sherrins-making-their-move |date=27 March 2024 }}, AFL. Retrieved 27 March 2024.</ref><ref name="BallLaw" />

===Field===
{{Main|Australian rules football playing field}}
[[File:AFL stadium.svg|thumb|Typical [[Australian rules football playing field]]]]

Unlike other forms of football which are played on rectangular fields, Australian rules football playing fields are oval-shaped, and are between {{convert|135|and|185|m|yd}} long and {{convert|110|and|155|m|yd}} wide.<ref name="PlaySurface">{{cite web |title=Pre-Match Provisions – Playing Surface |url=https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=18 |website=AFL |access-date=3 March 2024 |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143302/https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=18 |url-status=live }}</ref>

At either end of the field, two sets of posts are erected in a straight line to indicate the scoring areas on the field, each with two kinds of posts, named the goal posts and the behind posts respectively. The goal posts are placed first, located {{convert|6.4|m|yd}} apart from each other, with a behind post being placed a further 6.4 metres to the side of each goal post. The name for the field line between two goal posts is known as the Goal Line.<ref name="PlaySurface" />

Around the perimeter of the field, two white lines are drawn between the set of behind posts in an arc-shape, marking the field of play.<ref name="PlaySurface" />

Other field markings include:<ref name="PlaySurface" />
* An arc drawn {{convert|50|m|yd}} from either end of the playing surface, known as the fifty metre arc.
* A {{convert|50 x 50|m|yd}} square located in the centre of the playing surface, known as the centre square.
* A {{convert|10 x 10|m|yd}} circle located in the centre of the playing surface, known as the centre circle
* A rectangle drawn at either end of the ground, measuring {{convert|9|m|yd}} out from each pair of goal posts. This is known as the goal square.

The 50m arcs, centre square, centre circle and goal square are used at the beginning of each quarter or after each goal. With each team permitted a maximum of six players in each 50m arc, with one in the goal square and four players in the centre square with one in the centre circle. If this is breached, a free kick is awarded.<ref>{{cite web |title=STARTING POSITIONS |url=https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=39 |website=AFL |access-date=28 March 2024 |archive-date=28 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328080926/https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=39 |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Match duration===
A game lasts for 80 minutes, split into four-quarters consisting of 20 minutes playing time, with the clock being stopped for stoppages in play such as scores, or at the [[Umpire (Australian rules football)|umpire]]'s discretion, e.g. for serious injury.<ref name="Timing">{{cite web |title=Pre-Match Provisions – Match Timing |url=https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=31 |website=AFL |access-date=3 March 2024 |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143302/https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=31 |url-status=live }}</ref> Leagues may choose to employ shorter quarters of play at their discretion, such as the AFLW using 17 minutes per quarter.<ref>{{cite web |title=AFLW Rules |url=https://www.afl.com.au/aflw/about-AFLW/rules |website=afl.com.au/aflw |access-date=3 March 2024 |language=en |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143302/https://www.afl.com.au/aflw/about-AFLW/rules |url-status=live }}</ref>

For any given match, two timekeepers are appointed to officiate the duration. The timekeepers record all relevant statistics for the match, such as total quarter duration and score by each team. Additionally timekeepers are required to sound a siren prior to and at the conclusion of each quarter until such time they are acknowledged by the field umpires. To stop and recommence the clock, the field umpires are required to signal to the timekeepers to indicate when the clock should be stopped or restarted.<ref name="Timing" />

Between each quarter, a break is observed to allow players a rest period. Two six-minute breaks are observed between the first and second quarters, and the third and fourth quarters. A longer 20-minute break is observed between the second and third quarter, commonly known as ''half-time''.<ref name="Timing" /><ref>{{cite web |title=Time to cut half-time breaks? AFL makes the call |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/368722/time-to-cut-half-time-breaks-afl-makes-the-call |website=afl.com.au |access-date=3 March 2024 |language=en |date=1 February 2020 |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143308/https://www.afl.com.au/news/368722/time-to-cut-half-time-breaks-afl-makes-the-call |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Officiation===
[[File:AFL umpires.jpg|thumb|[[Umpire (Australian rules football)|Umpires]]]]
Each game is officiated by at least five match officials, known as an [[Umpire (Australian rules football)|umpire]].<ref name="Umpiring">{{cite web |title=Pre-Match Provisions – Umpires |url=https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=27 |website=afl.com.au |publisher=AFL |access-date=4 March 2024 |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143306/https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=27 |url-status=live }}</ref> These match officials are placed into three categories based upon their roles and responsibilities, with varying minimum numbers of Umpires required depending on position:

* Field umpire: Field umpires are positioned within the playing area contained within the Boundary Lines, and are the primary match officials.<ref name="Umpiring" /> A minimum of one field umpire is required to officiate the match, though it is common practice to employ more to reduce physical demand on individual umpires, and improve officiation quality.<ref name="Umpiring" /><ref>{{cite web |title=AFL confirms four field umpires for 2023 season |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/878267/afl-confirms-four-field-umpires-for-2023-season |website=afl.com.au |access-date=4 March 2024 |language=en |date=1 March 2023 |archive-date=11 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230311194749/https://www.afl.com.au/news/878267/afl-confirms-four-field-umpires-for-2023-season |url-status=live }}</ref>
* Boundary umpires: Boundary umpires are positioned along the two boundary lines upon either side of the field. Their primary duties include determining when the football is deemed to be outside of the field of play, and to throw the football back into play when directed. A minimum of two boundary umpires are required for a match.<ref name="Umpiring" />
* Goal umpires: Goal umpires are positioned at either end of the ground, with one stationed at either set of goal posts on the field. Their primary duties include judging what scores made by players, signalling scores, and recording scores made by each team during a match. A minimum of two goal umpires are required for a match.<ref name="Umpiring" />

At AFL level, a video score review system is utilised. Only umpires are permitted to request a review, and only scoring shots and potential scoring shots are permitted to be reviewed.<ref>{{cite web |title=Score Review Powerpoint |url=https://s.afl.com.au/staticfile/AFL%20Tenant/AFL/Files/AFL-Score-Review.pdf |website=afl.com.au |access-date=28 March 2024 |language=en |archive-date=28 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328112518/https://s.afl.com.au/staticfile/AFL%20Tenant/AFL/Files/AFL-Score-Review.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Game skills===
====Ball movement====
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An Australian rules football may only be propelled forward in a select few ways as defined by the Laws of Australian Football, published by the AFL. The ball can be propelled in any direction by way of a kick or a clenched fist (called a [[handball (Australian rules football)|handball]])—deemed a correct disposal.<ref name="Definitions">{{cite web |title=Definitions, Interpretations and Variation |url=https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=12 |website=afl.com.au |access-date=4 March 2024 |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143306/https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=12 |url-status=live }}</ref> Failure to dispose of the ball in one of these two methods will result in a [[Free kick (Australian rules football)|free kick]] to the opposing team.<ref name="FreeKickOther">{{cite web |title=Match Provisions – Free Kicks (Other) |url=https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=56 |website=afl.com.au |access-date=4 March 2024 |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143306/https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=56 |url-status=live }}</ref> If the ball is not currently in a player's possession, it can be moved legally through the usage of other means, such as punching.<ref name="Definitions" /> While in possession of the ball, players may run with the ball, but are required to either [[Running bounce|bounce or touch the ball]] on the ground at least once every {{convert|15|m|yd}}.<ref name="FreeKickOther" />

====Tackling====
[[File:Christian Petracca tackling Zaine Cordy.jpg|thumb|left|Tackling]]
Tackling is a technique employed by players used to force opposition players to dispose of the ball when they are in possession. Failure to dispose of the ball when legally tackled may see the player penalised for '[[holding the ball]]', except if the umpire deems there was a lack of prior opportunity to do so.<ref>{{cite web |title=Match Provisions – Holding the Ball |url=https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=52 |website=afl.com.au |access-date=4 March 2024 |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143306/https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=52 |url-status=live }}</ref>

The ball carrier may only be tackled between the shoulders and knees from the front or side.<ref name="Definitions" /> If the player forcefully contacts the opposing in the back while performing a tackle, the opposition player will be penalised for a [[push in the back]]. If the opposition tackles the player with possession below the knees (a ''low tackle'' or a ''trip'') or above the shoulders (a ''high tackle''), the team with possession of the football gets a free kick.<ref name="Prohibited">{{cite web |title=Match Provisions – Prohibited Contact |url=https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=50 |website=afl.com.au |access-date=4 March 2024 |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143306/https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=50 |url-status=live }}</ref> Furthermore, tackles deemed to be dangerous by the umpire and those conducted from front-on while an opposition player has their head over the football are deemed to be prohibited contact, and will incur a free kick against the offending player.<ref name="Prohibited" /><ref>{{cite web |title=Match Provisions – Rough Conduct |url=https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=53 |website=afl.com.au |publisher=AFL |access-date=4 March 2024 |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143306/https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=53 |url-status=live }}</ref>

Additionally, players may perform a technique known [[shepherding (Australian rules football)|shepherding]] when the ball is within {{convert|5|m|yd}} of an opposition player. Shepherding involves the use of a player's body to push, bump or otherwise block an opposition player, providing they do not have possession of the ball.<ref name="Definitions" />

====Marking====
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 | caption2  = A player leaping to take a [[spectacular mark]]
 }}
If a player takes possession of the ball that has travelled more than {{convert|15|m|yd}} from another player's kick, by way of a catch within the field of play, it is deemed as a ''[[mark (Australian football)|mark]]''.<ref>{{cite web |title=Match Provisions – Marking |url=https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=41 |website=afl.com.au |access-date=4 March 2024 |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143306/https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=41 |url-status=live }}</ref> To be awarded a mark, it must be deemed that the player sufficiently controlled the ball and took possession prior to it being touched, touching the ground, or in the case of a contest, being spoiled by an opponent.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://play.afl/sites/default/files/2024-03/2024-Laws-of-Australian-Football-Mobile.pdf|title=Laws of Australian Football 2024|publisher=Australian Football League|year=2024|accessdate=13 November 2024|page=51}}</ref> Upon a mark being taken, one opposition player may choose to stand on the point on the field where the mark was taken, known as "the mark". When a mark is taken, a small protected zone is established on the field, extending {{convert|10|m|yd}} either side of "the mark" and the player who marked the ball, with a small protected corridor between "the mark" and the player. The opposition player is permitted to jump, but is not allowed to move from their position on "the mark". Any other movements result in a distance penalty (50 metres in the AFL).<ref name="MarkDisposal">{{cite web |title=Match Provisions – Disposal After Mark |url=https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=58 |website=afl.com.au |access-date=4 March 2024 |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143306/https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=58 |url-status=live }}</ref> The player who was awarded the mark may then choose to either dispose of the ball over "the mark" or may choose to attempt disposal via a different method, in which case the field umpire will call "play on"—a verbal instruction to continue play.<ref name="MarkDisposal" /><ref name="Definitions" /> "Play on" may also be called if the umpire deems the player awarded the mark to be taking an unreasonable amount of time to dispose of the football.<ref name="MarkDisposal" />

Once the player has disposed of the ball, or "play on" is called, normal play resumes.<ref name="MarkDisposal" />

====Rucking====
{{see|Ruck (Australian rules football)}}
[[File:Tim English and Levi Casboult ruck contest.4.jpg|thumb|upright|Rucking]]
Rucking is the only specialist skill and is performed by a ruck, the term for designated players from each side to which umpire sends the ball to commence play.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://play.afl/sites/default/files/2024-03/2024-Laws-of-Australian-Football-Mobile.pdf|title=Laws of Australian Football 2024|publisher=Australian Football League|year=2024|accessdate=13 November 2024|page=38}}</ref> Only a nominated ruck may contest ball-ups and throw-ins.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://play.afl/sites/default/files/2024-03/2024-Laws-of-Australian-Football-Mobile.pdf|title=Laws of Australian Football 2024|publisher=Australian Football League|year=2024|accessdate=13 November 2024|page=40}}</ref> They are the only player allowed within the 10 metre circle at a centre bounce. Functionally the role is analogous to a [[Center (basketball)|basketball center]] and as such rucks are typically the tallest player on the team. Lifting teammates is not allowed<ref>{{cite web|url=https://play.afl/sites/default/files/2024-03/2024-Laws-of-Australian-Football-Mobile.pdf|title=Laws of Australian Football 2024|publisher=Australian Football League|year=2024|accessdate=13 November 2024|page=58}}</ref> so the ruck may only jump to reach the ball. If the ruck does not take possession of the football, it must be tapped or fisted, which is known as a hit-out. An effective hit-out that passes the ball to a teammate is known as a hit-out to advantage.<ref>[https://www.afl.com.au/news/144837/stats-glossary-every-stat-explained Stats glossary: Every stat explained] from AFL 28 December 2017</ref>

===Misconduct===
In the event a player breaks a rule, a free kick is awarded to the opposing team, from the location that the misconduct occurred, or the ball's current location—whichever is closer to the team's scoring zone.<ref>{{cite web |title=Match Provisions – Free Kicks |url=https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=49 |website=afl.com.au |access-date=4 March 2024 |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143306/https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=49 |url-status=live }}</ref> As when a mark is taken, this location is called "the mark", and the same protections regarding the space apply.<ref name="MarkDisposal" />

In the event a player engages in unsportsmanlike conduct after a free kick has been awarded or a mark has been paid to the opposing team, the umpire may instead award a 50-metre penalty. When imposed, the field umpire will advance "the mark" an additional {{convert|50|m|yd}} down the field or to the goal line, whichever is closer. Additional 50-metre penalties may be awarded if the behaviour continues after the initial penalty.<ref>{{cite web |title=Match Provisions – Fifty Metre Penalties |url=https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=56 |website=afl.com.au |access-date=4 March 2024 |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143306/https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=56 |url-status=live }}</ref>

The laws of the game allow umpires to send off players for egregious foul play, although this law does not apply to the AFL and is largely only used at the local level.<ref>{{cite news |title=The AFL says it has no plans for a 'red card' rule — but Tom Stewart's hit on Dion Prestia has put the spotlight back on the debate |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-06-29/tom-stewarts-high-hit-dion-prestia-reignited-afls-red-card-talk/101186070 |newspaper=ABC News |date=28 June 2022 |access-date=28 March 2024 |archive-date=28 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328150357/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-06-29/tom-stewarts-high-hit-dion-prestia-reignited-afls-red-card-talk/101186070 |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Scoring===
[[File:AFL-Goalposts.jpg|thumb|The two tall central posts are the goal posts, and the two shorter outer posts are the behind posts.]]
There are two types of scoring shots in Australian football: goals and behinds. A ''goal'' is worth six points, and is scored when the football is propelled between the goal posts and across the goal line at any height by way of a kick from the attacking team. It may touch the ground, but must not have been touched by any player from either team or a goalpost prior to crossing the goal line.<ref name="Scoring">{{cite web |title=Match Provisions – Scoring |url=https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=43 |website=afl.com.au |access-date=4 March 2024 |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143306/https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=43 |url-status=live }}</ref>

A ''behind'' is worth one point and is scored when:<ref name="Scoring" />

* The ball passes between a goal post and a behind post at any height.
* If the ball hits a goal post.
* If any player sends the ball across the goal or behind line by touching it with any part of the body other than a foot or lower leg.

A behind is also awarded to the team if the ball touches any part of an opposition player, including a foot, before passing across their goal or behind line.<ref name="Scoring" /> A free kick is awarded against any player who is deemed to have deliberately rushed a behind.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.foxsports.com.au/breaking-news/afl-rules-on-deliberate-rushed-behinds/story-e6frf33c-1111118325150|title=AFL rules on deliberate rushed behinds|access-date=27 February 2011|archive-date=5 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121005223345/http://www.foxsports.com.au/breaking-news/afl-rules-on-deliberate-rushed-behinds/story-e6frf33c-1111118325150|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/all-clear-for-rushed-behind-rule/story-e6frf9jf-1225700531493|title=All clear for rushed behind rule<!-- Bot generated title -->|website=Herald Sun}}</ref>

The team that has scored the most points at the end of play wins the game. If the scores are level on points at the end of play, then the game is a draw; extra time applies only during finals matches in some competitions.<ref>{{cite web |title=Laws of Australian Football – Introduction |url=https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=10 |website=afl.com.au |access-date=4 March 2024 |archive-date=3 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303143306/https://resources.afl.com.au/afl/document/2022/03/28/6d92ed7c-efc2-44dc-86bc-9fa1d9b338ad/2022-Laws-of-the-Game-Booklet.pdf#page=10 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=What happens if the Grand Final is a draw? The AFL explains |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/521166/what-happens-if-the-grand-final-is-a-draw-the-afl-explains |website=afl.com.au |access-date=4 March 2024 |language=en |date=23 October 2020 |archive-date=4 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240304141518/https://www.afl.com.au/news/521166/what-happens-if-the-grand-final-is-a-draw-the-afl-explains |url-status=live }}</ref>

As an example of a score report, consider a match between Sydney and Geelong with the former as the home team. Sydney's score of 17 goals and 5 behinds equates to 107 points. Geelong's score of 10 goals and 17 behinds equates to a 77-point tally. Sydney wins the match by a margin of 30 points. Such a result would be written as:

:"Sydney 17.5 (107) defeated Geelong 10.17 (77)".

And spoken as:

:"Sydney, seventeen-five, one hundred and seven, defeated Geelong, ten-seventeen, seventy-seven".

Additionally, it can be said that:

:"Sydney defeated Geelong by 30 points".

The home team is typically listed first and the visiting side is listed second.

A draw would be written as:

:"Greater Western Sydney 10.8 (68) drew with Geelong 10.8 (68)".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://afltables.com/afl/stats/games/2017/092120170701.html|title=Greater Western Sydney v Geelong|publisher=AFL Tables|date=1 July 2017|access-date=13 September 2017|archive-date=13 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170913135328/https://afltables.com/afl/stats/games/2017/092120170701.html|url-status=live}}</ref>