In this bonus episode, Peter Ryan and Danny Russell take an in-depth look at the AFL tribunal after string of controversial cases so far in 2026 have thrust the judiciary back into the spotlight. 

We've had a hearing interrupted by an open-house inspection, and another by barking dogs, and we’ve even had a King's Counsel sacked after delivering a judgement that AFL headquarters couldn’t stomach. 

To complement a series running in The Age this week, Peter and Danny discuss how and why the judiciary works the way it does, ask what improvements need to be made and unpack the controversial matters of the season so far.

In this bonus episode, Peter Ryan and Danny Russell take an in-depth look at the AFL tribunal after string of controversial cases so far in 2026 have thrust the judiciary back into the spotlight. We've had a hearing interrupted by an open-house inspection, and another by barking dogs, and we&rsquo;ve even had a King's Counsel sacked after delivering a judgement that AFL headquarters couldn&rsquo;t stomach. To complement a series running in The Age this week, Peter and Danny discuss how and why the judiciary works the way it does, ask what improvements need to be made and unpack the controversial matters of the season so far.

The best footy writers from The Age and Sydney Morning Herald bring you the weekly lowdown on all things AFL.

If you like the pod, please take the time to rate & review us on Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your pods. We love to hear from you and it makes it easier for the rest of the podcast world to find us.

And, why not become a subscriber? Our supporters power our newsrooms and are critical for the sustainability of news coverage. Becoming a subscriber also gets you exclusive behind-the-scenes content and invitations to special events. Click on the links to subscribe https://subscribe.theage.com.au/ or https://subscribe.smh.com.au/

The best footy writers from The Age and Sydney Morning Herald bring you the weekly lowdown on all things AFL.
If you like the pod, please take the time to rate &amp; review us on Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your pods. We love to hear from you and it makes it easier for the rest of the podcast world to find us.
And, why not become a subscriber? Our supporters power our newsrooms and are critical for the sustainability of news coverage. Becoming a subscriber also gets you exclusive behind-the-scenes content and invitations to special events. Click on the links to subscribe <a href="https://subscribe.theage.com.au/">https://subscribe.theage.com.au/</a> or <a href="https://subscribe.smh.com.au/">https://subscribe.smh.com.au/</a>

News, analysis and insight on the AFL from The Age sports team.