Country Rugby League regional manager Western, Peter Clarke said the changes, which will be implemented from the under 6s age group right across the state, have been backed by the Rams region.

They’ll come into play in 2017, meaning junior league stars of the future will get the benefit of longer periods of time with the ball in hand with little consequence for mistakes – a chance rule is also being introduced for forward passes, knock-ons and running into touch at an under 6s level.

Clarke said the main focus on the changes was to make the game more enjoyable for junior age groups, with the non-competitive nature of the competitions across the Western Division extending from under 6s through to under 9s.

“And in Group 14, they’re stretching it to include under 10s next season,” Clarke added.

“It’s more about encouraging kids to be part of our game at an early age, and making sure that time in the game is an enjoyable experience so the pathway into older age groups is clear,” he said.

Clarke said making the changes to junior league known now, five months out from the start of the season, would ensure there’s no excuses for anyone come kick-off.

In announcing the changes, the NRL added it will continue its policy of positive and appropriate off-field behaviour amongst parents, spectators and fellow participants.

"Children and young adults learn from those around them and we are committed to ensuring that those in our game, no matter what level and age, are respectful at all times," NRL chief of football Brian Canavan said, and Clarke echoed that sentiment.

Clarke was confident the changes, which filter up through the grades – at varied degrees - until international rules are applied in the under 13s, would help facilitate junior league participation, which is still strong in the Western Rams area.