NRL Unpacked: How does the NRLW judiciary system work?
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NRLW players will go into the 2022 season with a clean slate from any previous charges following confirmed changes to the match review and judiciary processes ahead of the fifth competition.
The changes, which are similar but not the same as the NRL Telstra Premiership, are designed to streamline processes, simplify the calculation of penalties, improve transparency and make the code more easily understood by clubs, players and fans.
NRL Unpacked: NRLW Judiciary
What are the main changes to the NRLW judiciary system in 2022?
Previously the NRLW's match review process fell under a demerit points system, which has now been simplified through a simpler table that streamlines offences (see table below) under eight different categories. The changes are designed to find the right balance to ensure fair and appropriate deterrents are in place so the game is as safe as possible for all participants. This new system also falls into line with judiciary procedures within women’s state league competitions.
What are the main differences between the women's and men's judiciary processes now in place?
The NRLW's judiciary code has been streamlined from 15 offences to eight, in line with the NRL's code which was updated earlier this year.
Comparing some differences, as seen via the table below, NRLW players will receive warnings for first offences on grade one charges for careless high tackles, dangerous contact and dangerous throw — offences that would usually attract a fine or suspension in the NRL. This reflects the current pay scale difference between competitions and also the length of season of the NRLW.
Overall, while there is some consistency between the match review and judiciary processes in both the men’s and women’s competitions primarily around the number of charges applicable and simplifying the grading system, the penalties are vastly different — ensuring player safety remains an overriding priority while also acknowledging the shorter length of the season and the level of remuneration.
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Does the new judiciary code take into account the shorter season?
The changes to the NRLW Match Review and Judiciary process mean only serious instances of foul play would result in a suspension of multiple matches and the vast majority of low grade offences could result in a warning or a $400 fine for both first and second offences. No offence could result in a suspension of three matches with a guilty plea aside from a referred charge.
Can NRLW players be fined?
NRLW players have the option of accepting a $400 fine instead of receiving a one-match ban for first and second offences in each of the above categories, in addition to all other grade one charges that attract a one-match ban. This means the only Grade One charge which would not include a warning or the option of a $400 fine for a first offence is a Reckless High tackle offence.
A 50% discount will apply for any financial penalty for a player who accepts for a first offence if they have a clean record for three years at the NRLW level.
Why wasn't this new system implemented during the NRLW season played earlier this year?
As the NRLW season played between February to April was classed as the "2021 season", the judiciary changes were not in effect as it was not in place during last year in either competition.
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Who is on the NRLW judiciary panel in 2022?
Former player Tarsha Gale will once again be a permanent member of the NRLW judiciary panel while Judiciary Chairman, Supreme Court Justice Geoffrey Bellew, will have a casting vote when the two-person panel is not unanimous in their decision.
The Judiciary Chairman will provide an explanation of the panel's decision after every verdict is handed down, providing fans and clubs with a greater understanding of the decision.
How are previous offences recorded i.e. what if a player reoffends in the same category?
The NRLW's table of offences will only include two categories for previous offences (see below) to minimise the escalation of penalties in recognition of the shorter length of the women's season. If a third offence occurs in the same category, players will be subjected to the subsequent offence category.
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Why does the NRLW's table of offences have more "Referred to Judiciary" options than the NRL?
The direct referrals option in each category allows the panel to determine the penalty while considering the length of the NRLW season.
| Offence | Grade | 1st Offence (early plea in bracket) |
2nd & Subsequent Offence (early plea in bracket) |
|---|---|---|---|
| High Tackle - Careless | 1 | Warning | 2 matches (1)* |
| 2 | 2 matches (1) | 3 matches (2) | |
| 3 | 3 matches (2) | Referred to Judiciary | |
| High Tackle - Reckless | 1 (4) # | Referred to Judiciary | Referred to Judiciary |
| 2 (5) | Referred to Judiciary | Referred to Judiciary | |
| 3 (6) | Referred to Judiciary | Referred to Judiciary | |
| Dangerous Contact | 1 | Warning | 2 matches (1)* |
| 2 | 2 matches (1) | 3 matches (2) | |
| 3 | 3 matches (2) | Referred to Judiciary | |
| Dangerous Throw | 1 | Warning | 2 matches (1)* |
| 2 | 3 matches (2) | Referred to Judiciary | |
| 3 | Referred to Judiciary | Referred to Judiciary | |
| Striking | 1 | 2 matches (1)* | 3 matches (2) |
| 2 | 3 matches (2) | Referred to Judiciary | |
| 3 | Referred to Judiciary | Referred to Judiciary | |
| Crusher Tackle | 1 | 2 matches (1)* | 3 matches (2) |
| 2 | 3 matches (2) | Referred to Judiciary | |
| 3 | Referred to Judiciary | Referred to Judiciary | |
| Contrary Conduct | 1 | Warning | 2 matches (1)* |
| 2 | 2 matches (1) | 3 matches (2) | |
| 3 | 3 matches (2) | Referred to Judiciary | |
| Shoulder Charge | 1 | 2 matches (1)* | 3 matches (2) |
| 2 | 3 matches (2) | Referred to Judiciary | |
| 3 | Referred to Judiciary | Referred to Judiciary |
