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1. NAME
The name of the Association shall be the “North Western Football Association Incorporated” hereafter referred to as the N.W.F.A. and shall be open to all approved clubs subject to Rule 5.
 
2. OBJECTIVES
The objective of the N.W.F.A. is to promote the interests of Australian Rules Football within the Association’s sphere of authority.

3. HEADQUARTERS
The Headquarters of the N.W.F.A. shall be Ulverstone. (amended 7.12.09)

4. CONSTITUTION
(1) No amendment of, or addition to the Constitution, or Rules, may be made except at an Annual Meeting or at a Special Meeting called for that purpose.

(2) The full text of every proposed amendment shall be supplied to the Secretary and to the secretary of each Club at least seven (7) days prior to the meeting at which it is intended to be moved.

(3) No such amendment shall be made unless three (3) quarters majority of the delegates present vote in favour of it and no such amendment shall be operative until same has been approved by the Controlling Body with which the N.W.F.A. is affiliated.

(4) To signify its approval, or otherwise of such amendment, within seven (7) days after same shall have been made by the necessary majority, the attest of the Controlling Body shall be assumed until such notice to the contrary is received by the Secretary.

(5) The Public Officer shall forthwith notify Corporate Affairs of any change or amendment carried to this Constitution.

5. CLUBS
The affiliated Clubs for the time being of the N.W.F.A. shall be:

(1) Such clubs as were the affiliated clubs of the N.W.F.A. at the close of the preceding season, and have at the Annual Meeting for the current year of the N.W.F.A. made application in writing for re-affiliation and been accepted by a majority of delegates present.

(2) Such other Clubs as have at the Annual Meeting for the current year of the N.W.F.A. made application in writing for affiliation with the N.W.F.A. and been approved as such by the Committee.

(3) Such other Clubs as during the current season of the N.W.F.A. may have been and for the time being are affiliated under the provisions of Sub Clause (8) of this rule.

(4) Each affiliated club shall at the Annual Meeting make application in writing for registration. The annual affiliation fee for clubs for the forthcoming season shall be set at each Annual Meeting.

(5) Each Club seeking affiliation with the N.W.F.A. must give assurances of being able to field a Senior and Reserve team for the complete forthcoming season’s roster.

(6) Application for admission of new clubs must be made at the Annual Meeting or a Special Meeting called for that purpose. Representatives of any proposed new club shall be permitted to attend, and shall state the name of the club, names of officials and give the same assurance as per Sub - Clause (5) of this rule. Such representatives shall then retire until the matter is decided.

(7) The Committee may, at a Special Meeting called for the purpose, review the position of any affiliated Club, and upon review, resolve that such club shall be excluded from the N.W.F.A. whereupon such club shall cease to be an affiliated club, but no resolution be carried unless two thirds of the delegates present vote in favour of it.

(8) Should a resolution to exclude a club be carried, the Committee may fill the vacancy by affiliating in accordance with, and subject to, the foregoing rules, another club.

(9) Each club shall register its colours, and shall have the sole right to wear such colours, if approved, until new colours are registered. Players appearing on the field without their registered colours or not clearly numbered shall be reported by one of the central umpires and may be liable to a fine as the Committee may deem fit.

(10) All clubs competing in matches under the auspices of the N.W.F.A. must supply the central umpires, fifteen (15) minutes prior to the commencement of the match, with a list of the registered names and playing guernsey number of all players taking part in the match, otherwise the club concerned may be liable for a fine or disqualification.

(11) An up to date list of all players shall be maintained and kept by the Registrar and made available to club officials on request. (amended 8.12.08)

(12) After the commencement of the roster, no affiliated club shall take part in any match other than those arranged by the Committee except with the express permission of the Committee.

(13) Clubs failing to pay fines imposed on them by the Executive, Committee, or Independent Tribunal within Fourteen (14) days may be disqualified, and shall not be reinstated until such fines, together with any other additional fine the Committee or Tribunal may impose upon them, be paid.      (amended 8.12.08)

(14) All clubs affiliated within the N.W.F.A. must have public liability and death and disability insurance cover for all players and officials. Clubs are compelled to provide the Secretary before the commencement of the roster with proof of their insurance cover. Failure to do so may result in a fine or disqualification.

6. AFFILIATION
The Affiliation of the N.W.F.A. with a Controlling Body shall be dealt with at the Annual Meeting or at a Special Meeting called for that purpose.

7. COMMITTEE AND EXECUTIVE
(1) The Committee shall consist of the Executive, three (3) Independent Delegates and two (2) delegates from each affiliated Club. Each delegate shall be entitled to not more than one (1) vote. (amended 8.12.08)

(2) The Committee shall have the entire control and management of all matches played under the auspices of the N.W.F.A, full authority to settle disputes in connection therewith and subject to provisions of Rule thirty two (32) its decision shall be final.

(3) Subject to the directions of the meeting of the N.W.F.A, the business of the N.W.F.A. shall be managed, and the powers and authority of the N.W.F.A. may be exercised by the Committee, except as otherwise provided in Sub Clause (2) of this Rule.

(4) The Executive shall consist of the President, two (2) Vice Presidents, Secretary and Treasurer.

(5) The Executive shall have the entire control and full authority to settle protests and complaints between clubs and players, between meetings, subject to the provisions of this Constitution and the Laws of Australian Football. (added 6.12.07)

(6) The Committee reserves the right to dismiss or suspend any delegate from attending meetings for a period of time they deem necessary for any misconduct against other members of the Association. The Committee has the right to deem the period of time for the suspension.

(7) The Committee, or the Executive, may fine or suspend any club or official for any misconduct deemed to be not in the best interests of the N.W.F.A. or any breach of this Constitution, and full authority to determine the length of any suspension and or size of any fine subject to Rule 32. (amended 7.12.09)

8. DELEGATES
Delegates must be appointed by their club, and any change must be notified in writing by their club to the Secretary prior to the first Committee meeting they attend at which they intend to vote. Proxy delegates may be appointed in writing by their club.

9. VACANCY
(1) For the purpose of these rules, the position of an Executive, or Committee person becomes vacant if the Executive or the Committee person:

1. Dies
2. Becomes bankrupt or applies to take or takes advantage of the law relating to bankrupt or insolvent debtors or compounds with his or her creditors, or makes any assignment with his or her estate for their benefit.
3. Becomes of unsound mind.
4. Resigns his or her office by writing under his hand addressed to the Committee.
5. Ceases to be a resident of the State.
6. Fails to attend three (3) consecutive meetings. (added 2.2.09)

 

(2) If a casual vacancy occurs in the office of a club delegate then the club that delegate represented shall appoint a person as the club delegate who shall hold office until the next Annual Meeting subject to Sub Clause (2) of Rule 9.

(3) If a casual vacancy occurs in the office of the President, the Committee may appoint one of its members to the vacant office and the member shall continue in office up to the conclusion of the next Annual Meeting following the date of his appointment.

10. CHAIRMAN
(1) The President shall be elected each year at the Annual Meeting, at which nominations shall be made. If two or more nominations are received, a ballot as per Sub Clause (14.3) shall be taken. Any casual vacancy shall be filled by the Committee. The President shall hold office as from the conclusion of such Annual Meeting until commencement of his successor’s term of office. (amended 7.12.09)

(2) The President shall, except when he or she is unable to be present at any meeting, be the Chairman of all meetings of the Committee. If at the expiration of fifteen (15) minutes after the appointed time of any meeting, the President is not present, or if he or she has to leave a meeting, the meeting shall elect one of the delegates present to be the Chairman thereof, who shall vacate the chair upon the President’s return or arrival.

(3) The President shall have the casting vote only.

(4) Vice Presidents, as such have no voting rights, unless he or she holds a separate position as club or Independent Delegate in which case his or her voting right shall take precedence.

11. SECRETARY AND TREASURER
(1) There shall be an independent Secretary and Treasurer or Secretary-Treasurer who must fill the qualifications required by the Committee and who shall be nominated and appointed in the same manner as the President.

(2) The Secretary and Treasurer shall have a voice but no vote in any proceedings.

(3) The Secretary and Treasurer may at any time be suspended or removed from office if the Committee may consider he or she is not carrying out his or her duties satisfactorily, or that he or she has been guilty of misconduct in his or her office.

(4)  Duties of the Secretary shall include:

1. Attend all meetings of the N.W.F.A.
2. Make, present and preserve Minutes of all meetings of the Committee and be responsible for forwarding a copy of all Minutes to the club secretaries and nominated club delegates (one per club ) within seven (7) days of each meeting.

1. Receive all inward, and prepare and dispatch all outward correspondence, whilst ensuring the President is provided with a copy of all inward and outward correspondence.
2. Coordinate all business relating to protests, complaints, reports and appeals which includes the setting up of Tribunal meetings and notifying the involved parties.
3. Act as the N.W.F.A. public officer plus media releases and collection of all results from each weekend’s matches and forwarding those results to the relevant media outlets. (amended 8.12.08)
4. Be responsible for all invitations and RSVPs for the N.W.F.A. major functions (three).
5. Be responsible for the match - manager duties for all six finals and lightning premiership matches.
6. Prepare a roster of duties to be allocated to clubs during the finals and lightning premiership matches.
7. Be responsible for keeping an accurate and detailed record of all expenditure, accompanied by the respective receipts (including phone calls), to be reimbursed by the N.W.F.A.
8. Be responsible for any changes to the N.W.F.A. Constitution and to maintain a sound knowledge of its content, in order to ensure the Secretary fulfils all duties and responsibilities involved with the role. (renumbered 8.12.08)

(5) Duties of the Treasurer shall include:

1. Attend all meetings of the N.W.F.A.
2. Maintain a full and accurate record of all monies received and spent by the N.W.F.A.
3. Receive all monies and deposit to the credit of the N.W.F.A. at the bank nominated by the N.W.F.A.
4. Pay all accounts approved by the N.W.F.A.
5. Submit an accurate and detailed statement including all transactions and showing the current financial position of the N.W.F.A. at all N.W.F.A. meetings, or at such times as the N.W.F.A. may request.
6. Be responsible for overseeing the gate takings during the finals series and lightning premiership.
7. Be responsible for the forwarding of all accounts to clubs for footballs, umpires, fines and any other materials for which the N.W.F.A. is entitled to do so.
8. Pay all honorariums and umpires fees as agreed by the N.W.F.A. Committee.

(i) Ensure the N.W.F.A. financial records are forwarded to the independent auditor in      time to be audited for the N.W.F.A. Annual General Meeting. (renumbered 8.12.08)

(6) If a casual vacancy occurs in the office of Secretary or Treasurer the Committee shall appoint some qualified person to fill such vacancy. The person so appointed shall continue in office up to the conclusion of the next Annual Meeting following the date of appointment.

12. INDEPENDENT TRIBUNAL
 (1) The Independent Tribunal shall be a sub-committee of the Committee and shall be elected each year at the Annual Meeting in conjunction with a Chairman and Vice – Chairman. A panel of not less than five (5) members shall be elected. (amended 7.12.09)

(2) If any casual vacancy occurs in the position of Independent Tribunal panel member, the Committee shall appoint some eligible person to fill such vacancy until the next Annual Meeting.

(3) A casual vacancy shall occur if any of the provisions of clause 9 (1) of this Constitution applies to
a member of the Independent Tribunal or becomes person convicted of a crime in this State or elsewhere.

(4) Not less than three (3) members of the Independent Tribunal shall sit together to hear and determine all:

1. Protests
2. Reports
3. Complaints
4. Appeals and complaints referred to by the Committee, or the Executive. (amended 7.12.09)

(5) The Independent Tribunal is vested with the power to:

1. Disqualify, reprimand or fine, (exception Appendix 2), a player convicted of an offence contrary to this Constitution or any of the provisions of the Laws of Australian Football or,
2. Disqualify or reprimand a player found guilty of any level of misconduct within The Enclosure that is deemed to be not in the best interests of the N.W.F.A.
3. Disqualify, reprimand or fine any club official found guilty of an offence within  The Enclosure that is deemed not to be in the best interests of the N.W.F.A.

(6) All matters of protests, reports, complaints or appeals shall be heard and determined subject to the provisions of this Constitution.

(7) The results of all matters heard and determined by the Independent Tribunal shall within three (3) days be communicated in writing to the Secretary. (amended 7.12.09)

(8) In the case of a player or official being reported or complained of for racial vilification the Tribunal Chairman shall automatically opt for mediation in the first instance.

(9) The Tribunal Chairman shall be responsible for insuring no Tribunal member shall be any part of a hearing involving a player or a club where a Tribunal member is deemed to have an interest.

(10) Where the Independent Tribunal imposes any penalty that is different to the prescribed Set Penalties, (Appendix 2), that the reasons for that variation be included in the judgement and written report of proceedings given to the N.W.F.A. Committee.

13. AUDITOR
(1) At each Annual Meeting, the members present shall appoint a person as the Auditor of the N.W.F.A. who shall hold office until the next Annual Meeting. This person may only be removed by special resolution.

(2) If a casual vacancy occurs in the office of auditor during the course of a financial year of the N.W.F.A. the Committee may appoint a person as Auditor and the person so appointed shall hold office until the next Annual Meeting following the date of his appointment.

(3) The accounts of the N.W.F.A. shall be examined by the Auditor at least once each financial year and the Auditor shall certify as to the correctness of the accounts of the N.W.F.A and shall report thereon to the members present at the Annual Meeting.

(4) The Auditor has the right of access to the accounts books, record vouchers and documents of the N.W.F.A. and may require from the servants of the N.W.F.A. such information and explanation as may be necessary for the performance of his duties as Auditor.

14. ANNUAL MEETING
(1) The Annual Meeting of the N.W.F.A. shall be held between the last week of November and the second week of December in each year with at least seven (7) days notice to each affiliated club stating time and place of the meeting and the nature of the business to be transacted thereat and by advertisement in the local newspaper stating the time and place of the meeting.  (amended 7.12.09)

(2) The order of business at the Annual Meeting shall be as follows:

1. The Minutes of the preceding Annual Meeting and all Special Meetings subsequent.
2. Correspondence including all nominations for positions of President, Secretary and Treasurer (to be in the hands of the Secretary seven (7) days prior to the Annual Meeting).

1. An audited financial report.
2. President’s report.
3. Application for affiliation from clubs.
4. Election of Office Bearers (President, Vice - President (2), Secretary,Treasurer and three (3) Independent Delegates, Auditor, Independent Tribunal.
5. Proposed amendments to Constitution.
6. Honorariums.
7. Affiliation.
8. Gate prices for the forthcoming season including finals.
9. Any special business.

(3) A ballot for the purposes of election of office bearers shall be conducted as a secret ballot. Two (2) delegates shall be appointed to conduct the secret ballot and to count votes. Voting papers shall be distributed to all delegates present and destroyed once the ballot is finalised.

15. SPECIAL MEETINGS
(1) A Special Meeting of the N.W.F.A. shall be called:

1. By order of the President
2. By order of the Committee
3. By the Secretary upon requisition in writing from a majority of

the affiliated clubs specifying the purpose for which such a meeting is required. (renumbered 8.12.08)

(2) Five (5) clear days notice in writing specifying the date, time and place and the business to be dealt with shall be given to every affiliated club. No other business shall be discussed unless all delegates present are in favour.

16. COMMITTEE MEETINGS
(1) Meetings of the Committee shall be held as decided upon at the Annual Meeting or by the Committee as required during the season.

(2) Business of the Committee shall be taken in the following order:

1. Minutes of the last meeting.
2. Business arising from the minutes.
3. Correspondence.
4. Treasurer’s report and accounts.
5. Registrations and clearances.
6. Tribunal Report.
7. General Business. (renumbered 8.12.08)

(3) Any Club not represented at a Committee meeting by at least one (1) delegate shall be automatically fined $100.00 for the first breach in any one season and a fine not exceeding $300 for a second or subsequent breach in the same season. Apologies do not cancel a fine. (amended 2.6.2008 and 7.12.09))

17. SUB-COMMITTEES
The Committee shall have the power to appoint a sub-committee for any purpose, and may at any time cancel such appointment. Subject to any special directions given by the N.W.F.A. Committee, each Sub-Committee shall regulate its own procedure in all respects.

18. MINUTES
The Secretary shall make and preserve full and correct Minutes of all proceedings of the N.W.F.A. and Committee meetings, and shall circulate them at every meeting whenever required by the Committee or any delegate at any reasonable time.

19. QUORUM
At all meetings the Committee delegates representing a majority of clubs present shall constitute a quorum.

20. RESCINDING MOTIONS
No motion passed at the Committee meeting shall be rescinded unless seven (7) days notice is given in writing, or unless two thirds of the delegates present are agreeable to allow discussion without notice. To rescind any motion, with or without notice, with two thirds of the delegates present must vote in favour of it, and if the number be not a whole number the number required shall be the next whole number above the fraction.

21. FINANCE
(1) The funds of the Association shall consist of:

1. Fees received from affiliation of clubs,
2. Fees received upon lodging protests,
3. Fines duly imposed on by the NWFA,
4. Gate and Program receipts from finals fixtures,
5. Sponsorship.

(2) From receipt of any monies, the Treasurer shall forthwith issue a receipt.

(3) All cheques drawn on the N.W.F.A. account or any other form of negotiable instrument or any other form of other document which may be required by the N.W.F.A. shall be signed by any two (2) of the following: President, Secretary or Treasurer.

(4) All accounts, books, documents, securities and records of the N.W.F.A. are to be kept at the N.W.F.A. office or at a place as the Committee may decide.

(5) All materials referred to in the foregoing clauses is to be made available for perusal at all reasonable times to members of the Committee upon request.

(6) The N.W.F.A. financial year shall end on the 31st of October of each year.

(7) All income and property of the N.W.F.A. shall be applied towards the promotion of the objects and purposes of the Association, and any payment, dividend, distribution, or bonus whatsoever from its net annual profit may be paid directly or indirectly to an affiliated club at the discretion of the Committee.  (amended 7.12.09)

(8) In the event of the N.W.F.A. being dissolved the amount and assets that remain after such dissolution and the satisfaction of all debts and liabilities shall be transferred to another organisation with similar purposes which is not carried on for the profit or gain of its individual members.

22. ROSTER
At the first meeting of the Committee following the Annual Meeting, or as soon after as may be practicable, the roster for the forthcoming season shall be arranged and no alteration thereafter shall be made, except under special circumstances. The grounds at which matches are to be played may be altered at subsequent meetings, or by the Executive. (amended 7.12.09)

23. CLUBS ON - FIELD OFFICIALS
The following officials are permitted to enter the playing arena during the course of a match conducted under the auspices of the N.W.F.A.

(1) Trainers are permitted to enter the playing arena for the purpose of applying medical treatment to injured players. Trainers entering the playing arena are to be dressed in white or black trousers and if required sponsors tops as directed by the Committee. Trainers are permitted to carry water.

(2) Runners are permitted to enter the playing arena for the purpose of relaying messages from the coaching staff or to provide water to players. They must be dressed in the uniform as directed by the Committee.

(3) A maximum of two (2) Water Persons are permitted to enter the playing arena strictly for the purpose of providing drinks to players. These persons must be at least fourteen (14) years old. They must be dressed in the uniform as directed by the Committee.

(4) Failure by on field officials to wear the proper uniform shall be dealt with by the Committee and may cause the club for which the official is officiating to be fined an amount of twenty – five dollars ($25) for a first offence and a fine not exceeding $100 dollars for any subsequent offence. (amended 8.12.08)

24. PLAYERS

1. No player shall be allowed to take part in any match unless his registered name and address and date of birth is on the registration list and is other wise qualified to play.

(2)  For the purpose of determining a player’s eligibility to play in the N.W.F.A roster, or for the Association in any representative match based on a player’s age, such age shall be as at the first day of January for that current season.

1. Any player seeking a clearance from a club within the Association or from a club outside the N.W.F.A., shall not sign with any more than one (1) club apart from his original club in the same season unless the clearance has been refused. Where a player signs with more than one (1) club in the N.W.F.A. the Committee shall deal with the player as it sees fit.
2. Any player registered with an affiliated club who plays with another club either within or outside of the N.W.F.A., without first obtaining a clearance from his N.W.F.A. club, may be suspended for the remainder of the season.
3. In the case of a disbanded club with the N.W.F.A. players may, upon application to the N.W.F.A. be eligible to play with other clubs either within or outside of the N.W.F.A. if the N.W.F.A. is satisfied with their bona - fida. No player of a disbanded club will be admitted after 1st July of that year.
4. Any player may appeal to the Controlling Body with which the Association is affiliated.
5. Any player who has been found guilty of an offence, either on or off the field, and suspended during the roster season shall be ineligible to receive the Best and Fairest Award for either the Seniors or Reserves.
6. In the event of a tie for first place in the Best and Fairest Awards in either the Seniors, or Reserves Competition, there shall be no count back and there will be joint winners.
7. Any player who neglects to attend before either a Committee, Independent Tribunal or any other meeting of the N.W.F.A. to which he has been summoned by not less than 48 hours notice from the Secretary to his Club, shall be debarred from taking part in any further matches until he does appear, and the alleged offence is dealt with. In the case of genuine unavailability through employment commitments, proven by a letter from his employer, the Executive or Independent Tribunal at their discretion may permit him to continue playing until the matter is heard at the next available opportunity.

25. QUALIFICATION OF PLAYERS
(1) No player shall be qualified to play for an affiliated club within the Association during a roster match, lightning premiership match, finals match, or representative match:

1. Whose name is not on the Registration List for his club and approved by the Committee.
2. Who is under any disqualification imposed by the Independent Tribunal of the N.W.F. A. or any other Club, Association or Body.
3. Who has been registered during the current season or the preceding season with any one of the affiliated clubs and desires to play with another of such clubs unless he has first produced a clearance from such mentioned club signed by the President or Secretary of such club and endorsed by the N.W.F.A. The sub-clause does not apply to the Lightning Premiership.
4. Whose name is not on the Team Sheet given to the umpires prior to the start of the game.
5. Who has been registered during the current season or the preceding season with any

club of a registered Association unless he first produces a clearance from such club
signed by the President or Secretary and endorsed by the Association. In the case of
players in the Under18 competition becoming over age and therefore ineligible to play
in that competition and not being registered with any senior club, they shall be exempt
from obtaining a clearance.

(2) Any Breach of these rules shall be dealt with by the Committee, or the Independent Tribunal.
(amended and renumbered 8.12.08)

26. REGISTRATIONS AND CLEARANCES
(1) All players shall make application for registration on the N.W.F.A registration form, showing full and correct name, birth date, and address and signed by the player. The Committee shall have full authority to grant or refuse a registration to any person for any reason it may consider fit.

(2) Registration ceases on 31st October each year.

(3) Before any person shall be allowed to take part in any match under the auspices of the N.W.F.A. he must be qualified as per rule 25.

1. All applications for registrations or clearances shall be in the hands of the Secretary by 7.00pm on the Friday night prior to the match in which the player wishes to engage. In the first instance a player must be granted permission by the Secretary upon receiving a telephone call from an official of the club from which he seeks a clearance. In such cases these clearances must be confirmed in writing before that player is again allowed to play and endorsed by the Committee at its next meeting.
2. Applications for registrations or clearances will be accepted after 7.00pm Friday and up to 10.00am on the Saturday in which the player wishes to engage by facsimile only and the time will be shown at the top of the fax page as proof of such time. In the case of the fax machine not working a member of the Executive must be contacted by phone up to 10.00am on the Saturday of the match in which the player wishes to engage. Failure to make contact with a member of the Executive will deem the registration or clearance not to be received and the player concerned will not be eligible to play in that particular match.
3. Any registration or clearance in the hands of the Secretary within the respective time shall be considered received.

(5) No new application for registration as a player with an affiliated club shall be accepted later than 1st July each year.

(6) No clearance shall be granted to any player after 1st July each year except in cases where application appeal has been received by the Committee before that date, but such applicant must have completed qualifications as per Rule 25 not later than 1st July.

(7) No player may play with two (2) different Clubs on the same day or weekend.

(8) Any player who has been refused a clearance from an affiliated club may appeal in writing to the Executive, who shall decide on the matter. Any Club who refuses a clearance must state the reason for such refusal or the clearance may be granted without further reference to that Club. The decision shall be final, subject to appeal to a Controlling Body. Players and Clubs concerned may be represented at a hearing before the Executive or any subsequent appeal to a Controlling Body.

(9) Should any member of an Affiliated Club obtain a clearance to play with that Club by improper means, the Executive may deal with such player as it sees fit.
(10) A Club can only refuse a clearance for a player if he owes that Club money and or holds the respective club’s property.

(11) Any person being refused a clearance may appeal to the Controlling Body, stating the grounds for their appeal and forwarding an amount of two hundred dollars ($200.00).

27. EXPELLED AND DISQUALIFIED PLAYERS
(1) Any club expelling a player must furnish the Committee and the Controlling Body with which the N.W.F.A. is affiliated with the full particulars of such expulsion within seven (7) days of the actual expulsion, together with particulars of the offence for which he was expelled. No club shall be permitted to play such a player until the matter is decided by the N.W.F.A. Committee, or
Independent Tribunal, or by the Controlling Body. Any player who has been expelled, or disqualified by any registered club shall not be permitted to play with any club who is affiliated and under the jurisdiction of the Australian Football Council until the disqualification is removed, or the time of its duration has elapsed.

(3) Any affiliated club playing a disqualified or expelled player or otherwise unqualified player shall be referred to the Independent Tribunal and may forfeit the match or matches in which it plays that person and or be fined. Any club forfeiting a match under this rule shall be deemed to be the losers of such match and the opposing team shall be awarded the match with the score for the purpose of Rule 37 (ii) of 30 points to zero.

28. RESERVES COMPETITION

1. A player who is named on a team’s Team Sheet must participate in that match as a player, or as an interchange player who is not on the playing surface, but who is listed on the Team Sheet and available to replace a player on the playing surface. (added 1.2.2010)
2. When a player is named on a Team Sheet, but does not participate in the match in accordance with Rule 28 (1), that match will not count towards the number required to qualify for the Reserves finals series. (added 1.2.2010)
3. A team must start a match within the time scheduled for that match with a minimum of 14 players on the playing surface and a maximum of 16 players, unless both coaches and match managers mutually agree to start the match within the time scheduled for that match, with not more than 18 players on the playing surface.(added 7.12.09)
4. When both teams have 20 or more players named on a Team Sheet to participate in any one match, both teams shall start the match within the time scheduled for that match, with 18 players on the playing surface and interchange players. (added 7.12.09)
5. Should a player participate in both Senior and Reserve roster matches on the same day during the current season, the Reserve game shall not count towards the number required to qualify for the Reserves final series.
6. A player who has not participated in a Reserves roster match in the current season shall not be eligible to participate in a Reserves finals match in that season.
7. No player who has participated in a Senior roster match in the current season will be eligible to play in a Reserves finals match unless he has played in five (5) Reserve roster matches where the club has participated in seventeen (17) roster games or more in the current season, or four (4) Reserve roster matches where the club has participated in sixteen (16) roster games or less in the current season. 
8. On the Sunday before the fifth last roster match each year, each club shall forward to the Secretary a list of all players who have played a Senior roster match in the current season. This list must include the number of Senior and the number of Reserve matches each player has played in the current season, each club must select sixteen (16) players who will not be eligible to participate in Reserve matches after the fourth last roster match.
9. The Executive Committee shall have the right after consultation with the clubs concerned to amend a list by including the name of any player who in their opinion is a duly qualified Senior or Reserve player, irrespective of the number of games that player has played in either grade.

(10) The N.W.F.A. Secretary will as soon as practical forward a list of the Senior sixteen (16) to all clubs concerned.

(11) In the event of a drawn Reserve grand final a player who participated in the Senior grand
final in the same season shall be ineligible to play in the replay of the Reserves grand final.
(amended 7.12.09)

1. Rule 28 does not apply when a club has both Senior and Reserve teams playing in the finals on the same weekend, but no player can play in two (2) finals on the same weekend.

29. INCOMPLETE MATCH
(1) If a match is unable to commence or continue within the time scheduled for the match for reasons beyond the control of either team (including circumstances where it is unsafe for the match to proceed) the following shall apply:

(a) The result of a match which is unable to commence for reasons beyond the control
of the teams shall be determined by the Committee.

(b) If a match has commenced but is not able to proceed at any time prior to half – time, the teams shall depart from the arena. If the match is unable to recommence within a 30-minute period, it shall be deemed to be drawn and the scores of the teams at the time the match was interrupted shall be used in calculating the percentage of each team.

(c) If the half - time interval has been reached and the match is unable to proceed at any time within the time scheduled for the match, the teams shall leave the arena, or in the case of half - time, not return to the arena. If the match is unable to recommence within a 30-minute period, the scores of the teams at the time the match was interrupted shall be deemed to be the final scores of the match. The team with the highest score shall be deemed the winner of the match and the scores shall be used in calculating the percentage of each team.

(d) Unless otherwise determined by the Committee, a field umpire shall, having regard to the health and safety of the players and any other relevant circumstances, determine whether a match is unable to commence or proceed. A field umpire must determine that a match is unable to commence, or proceed for such time as lightning is present at, or within the immediate proximity of the venue where the match is being conducted.

(e) Where a team is directed to recommence play by a field umpire and the team fails, refuses or neglects to recommence play, the team shall be deemed to have forfeited the match under the provisions of 36(2) of the Constitution. (rule amended and renamed 8.12.08)

30. FOOTBALLS
All clubs shall play with the football deemed appropriate by the Committee. Failure by the home club to provide the correct footballs may result in a fine of one hundred and fifty ($150) dollars.
(amended 6.12.07)

31. PROTESTS, REPORTS AND COMPLAINTS
(1) Any affiliated club referring protests, reports or complaints to the Independent Tribunal shall forward particulars of the matter in writing to the Secretary by personal delivery or electronically no later than twenty four (24) hours following the match (with the exception of Rule 27.2) out of which such protests, reports or complaints arose, together with a fee of two hundred dollars ($200.00) which will only be refunded if the Executive is of the opinion the protest, report or complaint justifies a Tribunal hearing. All protests, reports or complaints must be signed by the President or Secretary of the respective club. (amended 7.12.09)

(2) Clubs forwarding protests, reports or complaints to the Independent Tribunal shall also within the same time furnish the Secretary or President of the club complained a copy of particulars by certified or registered mail or by personal delivery or electronically. (amended 7.12.09)

(3) All reports and complaints against players, officials or clubs shall be dealt with before the next match in which the club is due to participate unless circumstances do not permit so.

(4) Any player, official or club reported by an umpire or complained of by a club for any infringement of the rules of the game, for the use of bad language or any other type of misconduct during a match or in the enclosure before or after a match or at any place until midnight on the day of the match must appear before the next scheduled meeting of the Independent Tribunal. Failure to attend may result in a disqualification or fine by the Independent Tribunal who shall have the right to decide if a player is eligible to continue playing whilst waiting for a case to be heard. In the
case of genuine unavailability through employment commitments, proven by a letter from his employer, the Independent Tribunal at their discretion may permit the player to continue playing until the matter is heard at the next available opportunity.

(5) All reports against players shall be in writing containing full particulars of the charge and signed by the umpire making the report. The central umpire shall take charge of all reports submitted to them by the boundary and goal umpires in respect of each player reported.

(6) Team Match Managers of each club shall report to the umpires rooms within fifteen (15) minutes of the final siren to receive umpires reports and in default of doing so shall be deemed to have received such reports.

(7) It is the duty of the Team Manager or Secretary of the club concerned to notify the Secretary or President of the N.W.F.A. of any charges against players by 5.00pm on the day following the match or 6.00pm on the same day of the match if played on a Sunday. Failure to do so may result in a one hundred dollar ($100.00) fine for the Club concerned.

(8) On the hearing of any charges against a player, official or club for an offence alleged to have been committed in a match the evidence shall be restricted to
(a) Players participating in that match
(b) Club Officials participating in that match
(c) he person making the allegations and any two (2) persons called on his behalf who are either (a) or (b) above
(d) Official written reports
(e) The person or club complained against and two (2) witnesses who are either (a) or (b) above called in the defence of the person.

(9) One delegate of the club of which the player, official or club reported is a member shall attend with the person charged and may assist by asking revellent questions of the various witnesses and have the right of summing up the evidence in favour of the person charged. Such delegate shall be an accredited delegate to the N.W.F.A. or a Committee person of his or her club having written authority from the club they represent. Failure by any club to have a credited delegate or a committee person present before the Independent Tribunal shall automatically incur a fine of one hundred dollars ($100.00). (amended 7.12.09)

(10) The decision of the Independent Tribunal in all matters referred to shall be final, subject to the right of appeal to the Controlling Body as per Rule 32 of this constitution.

32. APPEALS TO CONTROLLING BODY
Any player, official or club desiring to appeal to a Controlling Body from a decision of the Committee, Executive, Match Committee or Independent Tribunal must do so in writing within seven (7) days of the decision against which appeal is made. All such appeals must be in writing stating grounds of the appeal and must be forwarded together with a fee of three hundred and fifty dollars ($350.00) to the Secretary. (amended 7.12.09)

The Committee, Executive, Match Committee or Independent Tribunal may then make a statement in rebuttal and both documents together with a copy of all evidence taken at the hearing or meeting and all relevant documents on the matter shall be forwarded to the Secretary of the Controlling Body.

33. SALARY CAP
(1) All Clubs affiliated with the N.W.F.A. shall abide by the Salary Cap and all its documentation as attached to this Constitution.

(2) The Player Payment Commissioner shall be appointed by the N.W.F.A.

34. FALSE STATEMENT
Any person found guilty of making a false or misleading statement before the N.W.F.A. Committee or Independent Tribunal or any other meeting shall be liable to expulsion or shall be otherwise dealt with at the discretion of the Committee.

35. TIMES OF PLAY
(1) All matches shall be played on the grounds fixed and be started at the arranged times:

1. Reserve roster matches shall be commenced at 12.00pm and be four (4) quarters of twenty (20) minutes plus time on.
2. All Senior matches shall commence no later than 2.15pm and be of four (4) quarters of twenty five (25) minutes plus time on.
3. Reserve finals matches shall be of four (4) quarters of twenty (20) minutes plus time on.

(2) In all cases Senior roster matches shall take priority over Reserve matches and any Reserve match made be shortened to ensure a Senior match commences at the time stated above.

(3) The Executive or Committee shall have the power to alter the commencement time of any match during the season.

36. FAILURE TO COMPLETE ENGAGEMENT
(1) Any club failing to complete any engagement or fulfil any engagement may be liable to disqualification and fined the sum of five hundred dollars ($500.00). Of this fine the sum of five hundred dollars ($500.00) will go to the club who was scheduled opponent of the club who failed to complete the engagement the day of the failed engagement.

(2) Where a team forfeits a match, the following shall apply:
(a) the points for the match shall be awarded to the team which did not forfeit the match, and

(b) at the conclusion of the home and away matches:
(i) the percentage of the team who did not forfeit the match shall be adjusted by crediting and debiting that team with the average number of points for the home and away matches that were scored for and against the team who did forfeit the match; and
(ii) the percentage of the team who did forfeit the match shall be adjusted by crediting and debiting that team with the average number of points for the home and away matches that were scored for and against the team who did not forfeit the match. (amended 6.12.07)

37. PREMIERSHIP
(1) For the purpose of determining the relative position of the affiliated clubs at the end of the premiership roster matchers:

1. In each match there shall be scored four (4) points to a winning club and two (2) points to each competing club in the event of a draw.
2. If at the end of the premiership roster matches two (2) or more clubs have secured equal number of points, the position of the clubs shall be decided by the proportion of points scored for and against such clubs as a percentage for the total of the seasons premiership roster matches.
3. Should this result in a tie, there shall be a deciding match or matches played at a date, time and independent venue as determined by the Committee.
4. The full control of arrangements for such deciding matches shall be in the hands of the

Committee. The cost of staging matches shall be met from N.W.F.A. funds. (renumbered 8.12.08)

38. FINALISATION OF PREMIERSHIP
(1) At the conclusion of the premiership roster matches the first five (5) Clubs in both Senior and Reserve grade shall play off for the Premiership in the following manner:

1. The Club finishing fourth (4th) shall play the Club finishing fifth (5th) in the Elimination Final. The loser of the Elimination final is eliminated.
2. The Club finishing second (2nd) shall play the Club finishing third (3rd) in the Qualifying Final.
3. The winner of the Qualifying Final shall play the Club finishing first (1st) in the Second Semi Final.
4. The loser of the Qualifying Final shall play the winner of the Elimination Final in the First Semi Final.
5. The loser of the First Semi Final is eliminated.
6. The loser of the Second Semi Final shall play the winner of the First Semi Final in the Preliminary Final.
7. The winner of the Preliminary Final shall play the winner of the Second Semi Final in the Grand Final.
8. In the event of a drawn Final in both Senior and Reserve games, with the exception of the Grand Finals, two periods of five (5) minutes will be played. In the event of scores are still tied at the end of these extra periods the next score will decide the match. (renumbered 8.12.08)

39. COMBINED MATCH
(1) Subject to the Committee agreeing to play a Combined Match as soon as practicable after the commencement of the season, the Committee shall appoint a selection committee whose members shall select a squad of players to train for selection in the N.W.F.A. senior combined team, Under 23, or such matches as deemed by the Committee.

(2) The date and venue and opponent for such matches shall be at the discretion of the Committee.

(3) Any player selected in the combined team training squad who fails to train at the nominated date and time without an acceptable excuse shall be dealt with by the Executive.

(4) Any player who is selected in either final teams for Combined Matches and who is absent without a satisfactory written explanation shall be liable to a fine or disqualification or both. The matter shall be dealt with by the Committee.

(5) Only players who are qualified to play in matches under the auspices of the N.W.F.A. shall be eligible to play in combined matches for the N.W.F.A.

40. UMPIRES
(1) All central umpires for all N.W.F.A. senior matches shall be appointed by the umpires co-ordinator. The exception to the rule would be the unavailability of umpires.

(2) The club whose home ground any roster match is played shall appoint at least one central umpire for the Reserve’s match that day with the visiting team to provide one central umpire also for that match.

(3) The Club on whose home ground any roster match is played shall appoint persons as boundary umpires who shall be attired as per uniform code. Failure to do so may result in a twenty dollar ($20.00) fine being imposed on Club.

(4) In all finals matches, the Executive shall appoint central, boundary and goal umpires.

(5) The N.W.F.A. umpires are entitled to a representative at all Committee meetings but with
no voting rights.

41. GROUND AND FACILITIES
The Committee may at any time request any affiliated club to put its ground or facilities in order. Any club failing to act upon this instruction within reasonable time, and who had not properly marked its ground or boundaries, or who has not got their goal post properly set up shall be liable to a fine or disqualification.

42. TIME KEEPERS, SCORERS
Each club competing in a roster match shall appoint a time - keeper and check score therefore. Check scores must collaborate with the goal umpire at the conclusion of each match and hand the scores to the Match Manager for dispatch to the Secretary.

43. INTERCHANGE STEWARD
The club whose home ground any roster match is played shall appoint one (1) Interchange Steward who shall be attired in an orange safety jacket and place himself or herself at the interchange line to ensure all players come on and off between the appropriate line. Failure to have such a Steward will be dealt with by the Committee and a fine of twenty dollars ($20.00) may result. It is also the responsibility of the Interchange Steward to note and take the time and number of all player/players removed from the ground by the central umpire. No player is allowed to go back on the field without checking first with the Steward. Failure to do so may be dealt with by the Committee or Independent Tribunal.

44. SCORECARDS
It is the Match Managers responsibility to dispatch all score - cards, voting - cards, team sheets and all other related written materials to the N.W.F.A. Secretary no later than one (1) working week after completion of game. If this is not adhered to a fine of twenty dollars ($20.00) may be imposed by the Committee.

45. LIFE MEMBERS
(1) All nominations for Life Membership are to be forwarded in writing to the Secretary before the 31st July in any one year.

(2) Nominations should state the career and involvement in the NWFA, or any affiliated club.

(3) The nominations shall be considered by the Executive.

(4) Any nomination not approved for Life Membership shall be held for a period of not more than five years and shall be reconsidered if the nominee submits a letter with additional information. 
(amended 1.2.2010)

46. BY-LAWS
The Committee shall have the power to make By-Laws for the better carrying out of the rules, provided always that such By-Laws are not contrary to these rules or to the laws of the game. A copy of such By-Laws shall forthwith be forwarded by the Secretary to each affiliated club.

47. RULES OF THE CONTROLLING BODY

To the extent (if any) to which this Constitution of the N.W.F.A. may contain no provision dealing with, or may be defective upon any question arising during its application, the Constitution, Rules and By-Laws of the Controlling Body with which the N.W.F.A. is affiliated shall so far as they may be applicable, be applied.

 

48. INCORPORATION
(1) The seal of the North Western Football Association Incorporated shall be in the form of a rubber stamp inscribed with the name of the Association encircling the word “seal”.

(2) The seal of the N.W.F.A. shall not be affixed to any instrument except by the authority of the Committee and the affixing thereof shall be attested by the signatures either of two members of the Executive or one member of the Committee may appoint for that purpose, and the attestation is sufficient for all purposes that the seal was affixed by authority of the Committee.

(3) The seal shall remain in the custody of the Secretary.

49: UMPIRE CARD SYSTEM

1. A field umpire on informing a player that he is being reported for a Reportable Offence and orders a player to immediately leave the playing surface, shall signal that the player has been ordered off the playing surface by pointing to the Interchange Area.

(2) When a field umpire orders a player off the playing surface, he shall hold aloft -
(a) a red card to signal that the player has been ordered off the playing surface for the remainder of the match, or
(b) a yellow card to signal that the player has been ordered off the playing surface for a period of 15 minutes, or
(c) a green card to signal that the player has been ordered off the playing surface for a period of 15 minutes.

(3) When a field umpire has ordered a player off the playing surface and held a card aloft -
(a) a red card shall signify the report requires an automatic Tribunal hearing,

(b) a yellow card shall signify the report may be heard by a Tribunal, or the player may take a Set Penalty in accordance with Clause 50 of the Constitution, in the absolute discretion of the field umpire, as he sees fit,
(c) a green card shall signify a player has not been reported for a Reportable Offence.

(4) When a field umpire orders a player off the playing surface, the field umpire shall notify the Interchange Steward.

(5) When a field umpire orders a player off the playing surface that player may be replaced immediately by another player.

(6) When a field umpire orders a player off the playing surface in a Reserves game and issues a red card, that player cannot participate in a senior game on the same day.

(7) When a field umpire orders a player off the playing surface, the provisions of the Laws of Australian Football shall apply.
(added 2.6.2008)

50. SET PENALTIES
(1) Each affiliated club shall abide by the laws and resolutions of the document named SET PENALTIES held within this N.W.F.A. Constitution. Failure to do so properly shall be dealt with by the Independent Tribunal or Committee. All new SET PENALTIES will be endorsed at the Annual Meeting or Special Meeting convened for the purpose.

(2) Any player accepting a Set Penalty, within the N.W.F.A.  or another affiliated body, or being found guilty of an offence by the Tribunal is unable to take a Set Penalty if reported again within the next two playing years from the end of the player’s suspension or guilty offence.

(3) Any player sent from the playing arena on a red card shall be ineligible to play in the N.W.F.A. until such time as the player has been before the Independent Tribunal. The exception to this rule will be Rule 24 (9).
(renumbered 2.6.2008)

51. THE ENCLOSURE
The Enclosure is the area including the playing arena, (change room and clubroom inclusive) plus all the area right to the boundaries of the respective recreational facility. (renumbered 2.6.2008)

52. FINALS TEAMS
It is the responsibility of all clubs participating in the N.W.F.A finals series to provide The Advocate with their respective team(s) for their upcoming games. The clubs must provide The Advocate with a minimum of 22 and maximum of 24 (seniors) and a minimum of 22 and maximum of 24 (reserves) players by no later than 8.45pm on a Thursday night. Any club which fails to provide The Advocate with their respective team(s) and, or plays a player not named in their respective team(s) may be fined one hundred dollars ($100.00).
(renumbered 2.6.2008) (amended 2.2.09 and 7.12.09)

53. MATCH COMMITTEE
(1) The Match Committee is a five - person panel nominated at the Annual Meeting or any general meeting from the Executive and Independent Delegates.
(2) The Match Committee shall have full authority to:
(a) to review and, or revoke a player's registration at any time for any level of misconduct on or off the playing arena that is deemed not to be in the best interests of the N.W.F.A.
(b) enforce a player to attend an anger management course or any other educational exercise deemed to be necessary.
(3) In the case of 2 (b) the full costs involved will be the responsibility of the player and, or Club to service.

(4) Any player who fails to attend a Match Committee meeting which he has been summoned with a minimum 48 hours notice may have his registration revoked unless he can prove to the Match Committee in writing he had a genuine reason for his non - attendance.

(5) The quorum for any Match Committee hearings is three.

(6) All Match Committee decisions are final subject to Rule 32.

(renumbered 2.6.2008)

 

APPENDIX 1

SALARY CAP

North Western Football Association Inc. Salary Cap 2005.

(1) The NWFA salary cap shall not exceed thirty thousand dollars ($30,000) players and coaches inclusive. (amended 7.12.09)

(2) Salary Cap Payments:
(a) Gross Payment: The players payment shall be calculated as a gross payment prior to payment by a club or group tax.

(b) Loans: The full amount of loans made directly or indirectly by or on
behalf of any club or associate of a club to any player shall be deemed
to be a football payment to the player or coach at the time of the
advanced of the loan.

(c)Travel: Players are permitted to be paid for legitimate travel subject to
the following conditions, that the amount paid is declared by the club
and included under the total salary cap.

(3) Total Player Payments:
Total payments to any individual player cannot exceed one hundred dollars ($100.00) per game. 

(4) Club Responsibilities:
All NWFA Clubs must provide the Payment Commissioner by the 1st of May each season with:

(a) A copy of the contract or agreement the Club has with each Coach and or Player receiving an amount of more than fifty dollars ($50.00) per game.

(b) A copy of each Clubs match payment system plus any incentive awards be it paid weekly or annually.

(c) A list of all the players receiving a game rate of fifty dollars($50.00) a game or less.

In the case of a coach and or player signing a contract or agreement after the 1st May, the club shall forward a copy of the contract or agreement to the Payment Commissioner within thirty (30) days.
Copies of all contracts of agreements must be signed by the Clubs President or Secretary and by the Coach and or Player.

All NWFA: Clubs shall be responsible for forwarding to the Payment Commissioner a weekly payments form for each respective game they shall participate in. These forms are to be posted monthly to the Payments Commissioner’s Office by no later than the tenth (10th) day of each month.
Any Club wishing to report differently must seek permission from the Payment Commissioner.
Any N.W.F.A. Club which fails to fulfil any of their Salary Cap responsibilities may be liable to a fee not exceeding two hundred dollars ($200.00).

(5) Breaches and penalties:
Any club found guilty of breaching the salary cap may be penalized up to twelve (12) premiership points and or be fined a maximum of fifteen hundred dollars ($1500.00).

(6) Procedure to be adopted by Payment Commissioner:
In determining whether there has been a breach by a club or a player of any of the preceding provisions in respect to the total player payments,the Payments Commissioner may in his sole and unfettered discretion adopt the following procedure:

(a) Advise the club or a player of a club in writing that he considers a breach of the provisions in respect total player payments has occurred and with such notice allow club or player or a club on behalf of a player a period of seven (7) days in which to forward written submissions to him showing cause as to why a breach of provision or provisions in respect to total player payments should not be deemed to have occurred and why the prescribed penalty should not be imposed.

(b) In addition to (1) above conduct a hearing in camera at an appropriate venue during which oral submission will be made on behalf of a club or player of a club by an authorized member of the club.

(c) Within seven (7) days of the completion of such hearing hand down his decision in writing in respect to whether a breach of provisions concerning total player payments has occurred and the penalty to be imposed in respect to the breach.

(d) The decision as to whether a breach of a provision or provisions of these rules has occurred shall be binding and final on all parties and no review (including by prerogative writ or otherwise) or appeal there from shall be.

(e) The onus of providing that breach of any of the provisions of these rules by a club or a player has not occurred lies on the club or player.

(f) The standard of proof is the balance of probabilities.

(g) Any hearing conducted in camera by the Payments Commissioner shall be conducted with as little formality as possible and the rules of evidence shall apply.

(h) The hearing panel may, at the sole discretion of the Payments Commissioner be constituted by the Payments Commissioner sitting alone or a panel of three (3) persons of which two(2) have independent alliance to clubs, the Payment Commissioner shall be the Chairperson.

(7) No NWFA club can appeal a decision against them unless they can provide fresh evidence to the Payments Commissioner.

(8) The Payments Commissioners Responsibilities:
The Payment Commissioner shall be responsible for:

(a) Insuring all NWFA clubs are fulfilling their obligation as per clause 4 (four).

(b) Insuring all NWFA clubs are not exceeding the total amount of thirty thousand dollars ($30,000) coaches and players inclusive.(amended7.12.09)

(c) Insuring no NWFA club or associate is playing an individual player an amount over one hundred dollars ($100.00) per game.

(d) Insuring that no player is receiving more than one hundred dollars ($100.00) per game in the NWFA.

(e) Protecting the confidentiality of the information provided by NWFA clubs.

(f) Provide the NWFA executive with an annual report with the information not to exceed:
*1 Each clubs total payments broken into total coaches and players.
*2 Each clubs match payments.
*3 Each clubs incentive awards.
*4 A brief of each clubs reporting performances for the respective season.

(g) destroying all information collected from the NWFA after three (3) years.

(9) Definition:

(a) Total Player Payments:
Shall mean and include ( but not limit to) the total of all payments for a single football season when ever such payments are made by a club or associate, representative, supporter, sponsor, financial contributor to or of a club to or for financial benefit or advantage of an association of a player of a club as players of Australian Rules Football.

(b) Football Payments:
Shall include total player payments and total coaches payments and shall mean and include ( but not limit to) all payments by legal tender and any financial benefit or advantage given or provided to or applied to the benefit of a player or an associate of a player or applied benefit of a coach or an associate of a coach.

(c) Coaches Shall Mean and Include:
*1 Senior Coach (playing or non playing)
*2 Assistant Coach (playing or non playing)
*3 Bench Coach
*4 Skills Coach
*5 Fitness Coach
*6 Reserves Coach (playing or non playing)
*7 Assistant Reserves (playing or non playing)

(d) Associate of a Club:
Shall mean and include (but not limit to) a person, business or corporate entity whether or not providing financial support to a club by which acts in such a way that a reasonable person would on balance of probabilities deduce that such a person, business or corporate entity acts in such a way as to associate his/her or themselves or it with a club or clubs.

(e) Associate of a player:
Shall mean and include (but not limit to) an associate of a club for which the player plays Australian Rules Football.
Parents, Wife, deFacto, Spouse, Partner, Companion, Friend, Acquaintance or Business Associate.

(f) Associate of a Coach:
Shall mean and include (but not limit to) as associate of the Coach, The coaches Parents, Wife, Spouse, Partner, Companion, Friend, Acquaintance or Business Associate.

(10) Payment Commissioner:

The Payment Commissioner shall be a person nominated by AFL Tasmania and agreed upon by the committee of the NWFA.

 

Appendix 2

Set Penalties
(as at 16/03/2004)

Minor Offence - 1 Match Penalty

• 19.2.2 (e)Disputing a decision of an umpire.

• 19.2.2 (g) (iv) Engaging in time wasting.

• 19.2.2 (g) (vi) Throwing or pushing another player after that player has taken a mark, disposed of the football or after the football is otherwise out of play.

• 19.2.2 (g) (viii) Engaging in a melee.

• 19.2.2 (i) Attempting to strike another person.

• 19.2.2 (j) Attempting to trip another person whether by hand,  arm, foot or leg.

• 19.2.2 (k) Intentionally shaking a goal or behind post when another  player is preparing to kick or is kicking for goal or when the ball is in transit towards goal.

• 19.2.2 (l) Wrestling another person.

• 19.2.2 (m) Using abusive, insulting, threatening or obscene language.

 

Major Offence - 2 Match Penalty

• 19.2.2 (g) (ii)Striking another person.

• 19.2.2 (g) (iii) Tripping another person whether by hand, arm, foot or leg.

• 19.2.2 (g) (v) Charging another person.

• 19.2.2 (g) (vii) Engaging in rough play against an opponent that in the  circumstances is unreasonable.

• 19.2.2 (g) (x)Spitting at or on another person.

• 19.2.2 (h) Attempting to kick another person.

 

Serious Offence - Mandatory Tribunal Hearing

• 19.2.2 (a) Making contact with or striking an umpire.

• 19.2.2 (b)Attempting to make contact with or strike an umpire.

• 19.2.2 (c) Using abusive, insulting, threatening or obscene language towards or in relation to an umpire.

• 19.2.2 (d) Behaving in an abusive, insulting, threatening or obscene manner towards or in relation to an umpire.

• 19.2.2 (g) (i)Kicking another person.

• 19.2.2 (p) Any act of misconduct (eg. king hitting, head butting, etc).

• 19.2.2 (n) Failing to leave the playing surface when directed to do so by a field umpire.