The traditional seven(7)-a-side format of the sport has been played since 1895. World Netball owns The Rules of Netball and regularly reviews them with the Rules of Netball 2024 Edition launching in December 2023. The new rules cam into effect internationally from the 1st of January 2024 and Member countries may plan their domestic competition implementation date up to the 1st of September 2024.

In 2008 World Netball developed a new format of the sport which was named Fast Net. This was a 6-a-side game launched in 2009 at the World Netball Series in Manchester, England.

Following a review of Fast Net this was further developed into a 5-a-side game called FAST5 – which is the format used at the FAST5 Netball World Series. The format is netball like you’ve never seen before; featuring dynamic rules changes including five players a side, shorter quarters, power plays and super shots.

Netball is played both indoors and outside – For those lucky enough to have access to a beach netball is growing at a pace with a range of tournaments adding razmataz and sun to the sport.

A number of World Netball Members hold annual beach netball tournaments.

Walking Netball is a modified version of the traditional game that is fully inclusive allowing anyone to participate regardless of their age, fitness level, ability or previous netball experience. As the name implies, Walking Netball is a slower version of netball performed at a walking pace. Walking Netball has a strong emphasis on getting people to participate in an enjoyable, safe environment rather than focusing on the competitive aspect.

All Abilities Netball provides the chance for people with a physical or intellectual disability to participate directly or indirectly in local clubs and associations.