The RDFL decision to cancel all junior round-13 matches by the two junior teams was taken after an off-field brawl between spectators at the Rockbank Rams and Diggers Rest Burras under-12s match on July 19. The match was called off at half-time and four police units were called to attend to the brawl involving 15 people.

Sunbury parent Michael Agrotis said he supported the zero-tolerance policy and the cancellation of all matches in cases where there were such brawls.

Mr Agrotis said it was a "lesson in anger management" and he was totally in favour of the cancellation [of matches].

Resident Mark Freestone said the decision sent a "good message" that bad behaviour would not be tolerated.

"Parents are responsible for setting the example and they should behave when watching matches, especially in that age group."

RDFL general manager Scott McCartney said every club under the RDFL umbrella, including those from Sunbury, supported the ban.

"The ban is to set an example for everyone ... because the message is just not getting through," he said.

"People should behave responsibly ... there should be no yelling or swearing. Hopefully, people will take notice of this and those responsible for bad behaviour within the clubs will be ostracised."

McCartney said attitudes towards umpires had also improved since 29-year-old Rockbank player Christian Innella received a life ban for striking a 16-year-old umpire earlier this year.

He said the RDFL had regular meetings with various leagues and the governing body of AFL Victoria about dealing with abusive and violent players and parents.