AFL PLAYERS will be hair-tested over the next six months as part of a review of the League's illicit drugs policy.

Players have ticked off the measure to gather statistics about illicit drug use amongst footballers, with the aim of informing any decisions about future changes to the IDP.

Mental health a significant issue in illicit drug use: Judd 

"The AFLPA has received the agreement of all players in the competition to being hair-tested over the next six months to better inform the knowledge base of the clubs, the AFL's medical officers and the working group, which demonstrates the players’ commitment to reviewing the policy," the AFL said in a statement. 

"All clubs were notified today of this step."

Hair testing had previously only been carried out between seasons.

Players who record a positive test do not register a 'strike' under the controversial three-strikes policy.

The working group reviewing the IDP met in Melbourne on Thursday to discuss the policy's framework, the focus of education programs, counselling and testing.

The group comprises AFLPA and League officials, club representatives, current players Chris Judd and Jimmy Bartel, and medical experts.

The AFL statement released after the meeting said clubs, medical experts and players are "equally committed to further improving the policy" and have reviewed the approach of other sports which have an illicit drugs policy.

AFL players voluntarily agree to be part of the IDP, for which the working group said they deserve "ongoing credit".

The working group will reconvene later this year to discuss further steps and what changes could be introduced next season.