Alright, footy fans, let’s talk about one of the most talked-about—and sometimes most confusing—parts of Australian rules football: free kicks. Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned spectator, understanding the different types of free kicks and when they’re awarded is key to following the action on the ground. In Aussie Rules, a free kick is a penalty awarded to a player when an opponent commits a specific infringement. Unlike in soccer (where free kicks often restart play after a foul) or rugby (where penalties lead to scrums or kicks for touch), in our game, free kicks are usually designed to give the non-offending team a chance to advance the ball or take a shot at goal. Let’s break down the main types, so you can spot them next time you’re watching a match at the MCG, SCG, or your local oval.
Holding the Ball
This is the big one. A free kick for holding the ball is awarded when a player in possession of the ball is tackled and fails to dispose of it correctly (by handball or kick) before being brought to ground or pinned. If the umpire deems the player had a reasonable opportunity to get rid of it, you’ll hear the whistle blow. It’s different from rugby’s “tackle” rules—here, you must either kick or handball, not just drop the ball.High Tackle
A free kick goes to the player who is tackled above the shoulders (around the neck or head). This is a safety measure to protect players from concussions and neck injuries. If the tackler makes contact with the head or neck, the whistle goes—no excuses. It’s similar to a high tackle in rugby league, but in Aussie Rules, it’s strictly enforced, especially around the goal square.Mark
A mark is a free kick awarded to a player who catches a ball kicked from a teammate (or opponent) that travels at least 15 meters without being touched by another player. The marking player then gets an unimpeded kick from the spot. This is unique to Aussie Rules—no other major sport gives a free kick for a clean catch. Think of it as a reward for aerial skill, like a specky in the forward line.Deliberate Out of Bounds
If a player deliberately kicks, handballs, or forces the ball out of bounds without it being touched by another player, the opposing team gets a free kick from where the ball crossed the boundary. This prevents time-wasting and keeps the game flowing. It’s different from soccer, where a throw-in is given to the team that didn’t touch it last—here, intent matters.Push in the Back
A free kick is awarded when a player pushes an opponent in the back during a marking contest or when contesting a ground ball. This protects players from dangerous contact and keeps contests fair. It’s a common one in ruck contests, where big bodies are jostling for position.Tripping
If a player deliberately trips an opponent (by using a leg or foot to cause them to fall), a free kick is given. Accidental trips are usually let go, but if it’s intentional, the whistle blows. This is similar to soccer’s tripping rule, but in footy, it’s often called in open play.Kicking in Danger
When a player kicks the ball while another player’s foot or leg is near the ball, it’s considered dangerous. A free kick goes to the player who was at risk of being kicked. This is a safety call to prevent injuries from stray boots.Shepherding Over the Mark
After a mark or free kick, the player with the ball is allowed to play on. If an opponent runs past the mark (the spot where the free kick was awarded) and interferes with the player’s kick, a free kick is given for shepherding over the mark. This keeps the game orderly and prevents blocking.Charging
A free kick for charging is awarded when a player runs at an opponent and makes high or forceful contact, especially when the opponent has their eyes on the ball. It’s like a “charging” call in basketball—unnecessary contact gets penalized.Holding the Man
If a player is tackled incorrectly—say, by being held without the ball—a free kick is given to the player being held. This is different from holding the ball, where the player had possession. It’s a common one when a player is caught off the play.Interference with the Mark
If a player runs across the mark (the line from where the free kick is taken) or tries to block the kicker’s vision or movement, a free kick is awarded. This protects the kicker’s right to a clean shot.Ruck Infringements
In ruck contests (where two players jump for the ball at a bounce or throw-up), free kicks can be given for:- Throwing the ball (not a clean bounce)
- Pushing an opponent in the back
- Kicking the ball out of the ruck contest (if it’s not a legal tap)
Out on the Full
If a player kicks the ball directly out of bounds without it being touched (either on the full or after bouncing), a free kick is awarded to the opposing team from where the ball crossed the boundary. This is similar to soccer’s “goal kick” rule but applied differently—here, it’s a free kick, not a restart.Fifty-Meter Penalty
This isn’t a free kick type itself, but a penalty that can be added after a free kick. If a player abuses the umpire, delays the game, or interferes with the kicker after a free kick has been awarded, the umpire can move the ball 50 meters closer to goal. It’s a big penalty that can turn a defensive free kick into a scoring opportunity.Summary
Understanding AFL free kick types makes watching the game more enjoyable—you’ll know why the whistle blows and what happens next. From the classic holding the ball to the safety-focused high tackle, each free kick has a purpose: to keep the game fair, fast, and safe. Next time you’re at the ground or tuning into a match, keep an eye on these calls. They’re the heartbeat of the contest.For more on the basics, check out our guides on AFL rules for beginners and player positions guide. And if you’re curious about how free kicks fit into the broader game, head over to our rules and positions hub.
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