In a significant gathering of football enthusiasts, members of the Melbourne Football Club convened to codify the first official set of rules for Australian rules football in 1859. The sport was rapidly gaining popularity, evolving from informal games played primarily for recreation into a more structured format. Players noticed the absence of standardized rules, which often led to confusion and inconsistencies during matches. Thus, the meeting at the Melbourne Cricket Ground aimed to unify the various playing styles that had emerged, providing a cohesive and clear framework for the game.

The Melbourne Rules, as they were named, consisted initially of 10 rules that outlined the starting procedures, scoring methods, and player interactions on the field. One of the most notable features was the introduction of the concept of a designated area for scoring, known as goalposts, which created a strategic element in gameplay. As a result, these codified rules contributed to defining the distinct nature of Australian rules football as compared to its rugby and soccer counterparts.

The codification of these rules became a pivotal moment in sporting history, marking the foundation from which the Australian Football League (AFL) would eventually be established. Over time, the rules evolved, but the core aspects developed during this meeting have remained influential, demonstrating the historical importance of this event in shaping a national sporting identity.