AFL football operations manager Mark Evans will have increased powers after changes to the league's tribunal system.
The commission has beefed up Evans' role in the tribunal system, giving him the option to refer a case directly to the tribunal.
Evans can decide on a direct referral, which means the player cannot take an early plea, even after the match review panel has assessed the matter.
He previously could lay a charge and grade the incident himself.
The league has also tried to clarify the definitions of negligent, reckless and intentional action in the tribunal rules, as well as what constitutes low, medium, high and severe impact.
Also on Tuesday, St Kilda announced they would contest the reckless umpire contact charge against midfielder David Armitage.
Armitage was booked for alleged contact with umpire Andrew Mitchell during last Wednesday's pre-season game against the Western Bulldogs.
He could have accepted a $1950 fine and now will be $2600 out of pocket if the tribunal finds him guilty.
Tuesday's hearing will be the first tribunal session of the year.
West Coast utility Patrick McGinnity can accept a one-game AFL suspension after he was charged with rough conduct against Fremantle opponent Danyle Pearce.
The incident happened in the final quarter of last Tuesday's pre-season win over the Dockers in Joondalup.
McGinnity would risk a two-game ban if he went to the tribunal.
He would have to serve any suspension during the regular season.
Gold Coast forward Timmy Sumner can accept a reprimand for his rough conduct charge against Brisbane's Tom Rockliff.
Hawthorn's Mitch Hallahan also faces a fine for umpire contact.
