NRL clubs have been advised that shoulder charges which result in dangerous contact to the head or neck will incur increased penalties in the finals series.

It was determined at a meeting by the Australian Rugby League Commission just one week out from the finals, with the move aimed to protect the head and neck of players.

Under the new guidelines, shoulder charges which result in dangerous contact will be referred directly to the NRL judiciary without grading – bypassing the match review committee – putting it in the same boat as biting, gouging and other non-graded acts.

The decision could signal the death knell for the shoulder charge in the modern game in the midst of a review of the controversial tackle – the findings of which are expected to be revealed in the off-season.

“While the commission does not involve itself in day to day operational issues, we believe it is important to send a message across the whole of the game in relation to the importance we place on player safety,” ARLC chairman John Grant said in a statement.

“The game’s executive has initiated a thorough process that involves multiple stakeholders in reviewing the shoulder charge and we recognise that this is a necessary part of any decision-making process.

“What we are making clear in the interim is that the current rules are to be adhered to in a manner that discourages any player from taking unacceptable risks with the welfare of an opponent.

“Rugby league is incredibly skilful and incredibly tough and the rules are there to protect the players within that environment.”