Rugby Australia said on Friday it would trial lowering the legal tackle height from shoulder line to below the sternum in a bid to reduce concussions.
The new measures will apply to all levels of the game below Super Rugby for two years from February, based on six years of research by World Rugby.
Trials of lower tackle heights have already taken place in France, England, New Zealand, South Africa, Ireland, Wales and Scotland.
Preliminary data from South Africa showed a 30 per cent reduction in concussions, while in France head-on contacts were down 64 per cent, Rugby Australia said.
Phil Waugh, the governing body’s chief executive, said World Rugby’s extensive research showed clear opportunities to make the game safer.
“Obviously it’s impossible to remove all risk from the game,” he said.
“However, we strongly believe that encouraging safer tackling techniques and reducing the risk of head contact and concussion will lead to a safer game.”
This decision was made after consultation with member federations, coaches, game officials, and medical staff.