The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) has today confirmed the appointment of an Independent Decision Maker (IDM) for off field integrity related matters under the NRL Rules, marking a significant step in strengthening the game’s integrity framework.
The Independent Decision Maker model has been approved by the ARLC following extensive consultation with Clubs and the Rugby League Players' Association (RLPA) and will come into effect from 26 February 2026.
Under the new framework the IDM will make determinations on all off-field matters, with the exception of matters relating to the NRL’s Anti-Doping Rules, Drug Testing Policy and Anti-Vilification Code as those rules each contain their own established disciplinary processes. The Judiciary Code (on-field matters) remains governed by its established disciplinary process.
The NRL has appointed the Honourable Geoffrey Bellew AM SC, former Justice of the Supreme Court and current Chairperson of the NRL Judiciary, to be the inaugural IDM.
In his capacity as the IDM, Mr Bellew will make the final determination on any off field disciplinary matter which is governed by the breach notice or show cause notice process under the NRL Rules.
Key elements of the process:
- The NRL Integrity Unit will continue to investigate all matters within its current jurisdiction.
- All individuals and Clubs subject to a breach notice or show cause notice retain the right to respond to that notice before a determination is issued and retain the right to appeal any determination to the NRL Appeals Committee (provided leave to appeal is granted).
- The NRL CEO has the right to make submissions to the IDM on a matter before the IDM. Further, the NRL CEO will have a right to appeal a decision of the IDM.
The No-Fault Stand Down, as well as decisions to register a Player or other person under the NRL Rules, remains within the remit of the NRL CEO.
