Rules of Netball

Equal opportunity, fair play and respect for an opponent’s skill and safety.

These are the core values that the Rules of Netball are based on. To ensure these values are respected, it is the responsibility of:

  • Players to make sure they are physically and technically prepared to play the game, comply with the rules and take part safely and fairly
  • Coaches or teachers of the game to make sure that players are prepared in way that complies with the rules, as well as having an understanding of sporting behaviour and safe practices
  • Umpires to apply the rules of the game with impartiality, fairness and consistency
  • Controlling bodies, at all levels, to make sure the game is conducted and developed in accordance with disciplined and sporting behaviour.

What’s new in the Rules of Netball

World Netball introduced an updated edition of the Rules of Netball in December 2023, which applies to international matches, and all affiliated competitions and events in Australia from 1 January 2024.

Educational Resources

To ensure that all members of the Netball Family are educated on the new Rules of Netball, World Netball have created educational resources, including videos and PDFs, detailing these changes. You can view the videos and documents at World Netball's website here.

Rules of Netball Exam

The Rules of Netball Theory Examination tests the basic rules of the game .A successful completion of the exam is a compulsory component of any netball accreditation, both for umpiring and coaching.  There is a requirement for the exam to be completed every four years to ensure that our workforce knows all of the new rules introduced after each World Cup by World Netball.

To ensure that all members of the Netball Family are educated on the new rules of netball, World Netball, in collaboration with NETFIT, have created educational resources, including videos and PDFs, detailing these changes. Head to https://netball.sport/game/the-rules-of-netball/ for more information.

It is an online examination that is accessible all year. A certificate is generated for all candidates who achieve a pass (70% or above). The most recent examination mark is the current result and Pass marks are valid for 4 years.

It is highly recommended that prior to commencing this exam you read a copy of the Rules of Netball (2024).
The exam is found in your Netball Learning account at a cost of $13.00 per completion.  Please note, if you do not pass the exam, there is a requirement that you will have to repurchase and complete again.

Head to https://learning.netball.com.au to take the exam.

For any queries or clarification on the new rules please contact rules@netball.com.au 

Downloads
World Netball Rules of Netball Book *Please note that this version is strictly for non-commercial use and not for re-print or sale.  The copyright and intellectual property rights for the Rules of Netball are owned by World Netball.

Purchase
The World Netball Rules of Netball book is available for purchase through the Netball Learning platform for $21 (plus $9 P&H)* You will be prompted to log in to your learning account, or to create a new account if you are a first time user.  Order here

*Domestic orders only. International orders will incur a flat rate postage cost of $20AUD

If you are located outside Australia, we will contact you after your order has been placed to arrange payment.