Becoming a Referee
Are you interested in joining our network of match officials?
Well, you’re in the right place! Here you’ll find everything you need to get started. Anyone aged 13 and over can become a referee.
There are so many different reasons to become a referee. It’s a great way to:
- earn some extra money
- give back to the game you love
- stay fit and active
- build leadership skills like effective communication, working as a team and decision-making.
Whether you’re a player, past player, parent, club volunteer or new to our game, we’ll equip you with all of the knowledge and support you need to enter the rewarding world of refereeing. Who knows, you might even officiate in the A-League or internationally with FIFA!
To become a referee, you must be 13 years of age or over and you will need to complete the C0 Course (formerly known as Online Laws of the Game Course) as well as completing a C3 Course (formerly known as Level 4 Referee Course).
STEP 1:
The C0 Course (formerly known as Online Laws of the Game Course) provides a basic introduction to the Laws of the Game and their interpretation. After completing the course participants will receive a certificate which will allow them to continue the refereeing pathway and attend the C3 course (formerly known as Level 4 Referee Course).
In order to become a referee in Australia, all participants must complete the C0 Course, whether they wish to officiate on MiniRoos, with their club or in an official capacity.
STEP 2:
Participants then undertake Football Australia's newly launched C3 Junior Football Match Official (formerly known as Level 4 Referee course). Log in to the learning centre, go to your Training Library and view a course in the Referee Community-Member Federation section.
There are 4 online theory modules and an in-person event to complete the course:
- Match Control - understanding our impact on the game
- Positioning Movement - the best position for the correct decision
- Technical concepts - C0 course and considerations
- Game Management - managing a match with football understanding
STEP 3:
Participants then attend the C3 Junior Football Match Official (formerly known as Level 4 Referee course) In Person Event.
The C3 Junior Football Match Official course serves as an entry point for those seeking to officiate in junior football leagues organised by Member Federations. Participants will acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to confidently manage junior matches while emphasising the importance of player development and safety.
Enrol for an in-person event with your member federation or zone to complete your accreditation, receive your equipment and order your clothing.
Find and In Person Event HERE
Cost to become a referee
The C0 Course (formerly known as Online Laws of the Game Course) is free to undertake.
The rest of the C3 Junior Match Official (level 4) course costs $183, including:
- Course registration (FA component included)
- Green First Year Referee shirt
- Black Umbro Shirt (for the 2nd year onwards of officiating)
- Black Umbro socks and shorts
- Whistle
- Set of assistant referee flags (2)
- Red and yellow cards
- Match book
- Play Football registration for the first year as a match official