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APF POLO RULES, November 2025

The following Rule has been updated and will become effective immediately with the exception of point 9, which becomes effective on 1st January, 2026.

E9. MEDICAL COVER

1. All Clubs must appoint a designated person as Club Safety Officer who shall complete returns on player injuries or fatalities as required by the APF. 
2. At club chukkas at least one person must be present who as a minimum has attended and holds a current HLTAID11 Provide First Aid Statement of Attainment from a Nationally Registered Training Organisation (RTO), or an equivalent qualification, and completed such post-training CPR annual refresher courses as required to maintain a current certificate. Clubs are required to sight and document evidence of these certifications prior to chukkas.
3.  At tournaments a minimum of a Commercial and Insured First Aid Service provider must be present. The presence of a paramedic is recommended. Polo must not commence until the provider is on site. Each state must abide to their individual States rules as to the determination of a commercial and insured First Aid service provider. For example in Victoria a VIC Department of Health Intermediate Licensed First Aid Service Provider and in New South Wales a NSW Health Licensed Paramedic Service Provider.
4. Where polo is being performed on concurrent fields, a team of 2 is recommended.
5. At polo where spectator tickets are sold, an ambulance with qualified personnel shall be available at the venue. Tournament organisers shall determine the recommended level of ambulance service required in consultation with their respective State Ambulance Service.
6. At all polo events an approved standard of First Aid equipment (kit) shall be available at all times. It is suggested that clubs consult with local medical personnel on what constitutes an adequate First Aid Kit.
7. Emergency Vehicles must have access to all parts of the event venue at all times. Local and State emergency services must be advised of the location and time of the event and co-ordinates of a suitable landing place should air evacuation be required at any time. The “Emergency Plus App” is an easy way to establish this when on site.
8. Should the umpire require medical assistance for an injured player, he should signal by waving his stick above his head.
9. From 1 January 2026, the appointed medical service provider must maintain constant communication with a designated onsite official (such as the umpire, third man, or Club Safety Officer) via radio. 
10.  Concussion. Please refer to the Australian Polo Federation Concussion Policy. https://www.australianpolo.com.au/Assets/Policies/14/APF-Concussion-Policy-May-2025.pdf