Two referees will control every NRL match in 2009.

The NRL board on Thursday confirmed the biggest on-field change to the way the game is controlled in its 100-year history.

The two-referee model will apply to the top-flight NRL competition only, with one official patrolling the play-the-ball area and the other positioned on the 10-metre defensive line.

The main referee will be the 10-metre official, who will use the whistle to order stoppages or penalties.

The second referee will communicate directly to the referee who has the whistle.

The referees will alternate roles during a match.

"This is a major step and another demonstration of the priority that is placed in officiating our game," NRL chief executive David Gallop said in a statement on Thursday.

"Today's decision is a fundamental change to the refereeing model and one that reflects the pace and demands of today's game.

"Not for a second do I think this will stop people arguing about on-field decisions but they can't argue about the professionalism or the dedication of those involved in making the decisions."

Among other decisions, the NRL board has also reduced the powers of the video referee, removing their role in adjudicating stripping decisions and restricting their calls on foul play to incidents serious enough for a player to be placed on report.

Another crackdown on grapple tackles, with the use of sin-bin for repeated or serious offences, has also been ordered.

The league will move to "regulate public comment" from players or officials about incidents likely to be reviewed by the judiciary.

And defenders who attempt to stop tries by leading with their feet or legs face being charged with misconduct.

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