Football Queensland is driving statewide transformation in officiating as it delivers record investment in match officials, forming part of a range of new referee initiatives to deliver on the 2024–2026 Referee Strategy and broader One Football Strategic Plan.
These initiatives will include the transformation of the Club Referee program and the statewide rollout of a ‘1 Club Referee per team’ requirement at every Queensland club.
“At the recent referee summit, we worked with clubs to drive an increase in the number of club-based referees in the game that will go on to build the referee base of the future,” FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci said.
“In a landmark announcement, the ‘Play for Free’ fee reforms are set to deliver benefits to participants in every part of the state, where FQ match officials will receive free or heavily discounted access to Football Queensland competitions in 2026 as part of the wide-ranging suite of referee initiatives.
“Football Queensland is proud to announce that 2026 will see our largest investment in match officials to date. This significant investment is designed to provide match officials with confidence whilst we build a professional and sustainable environment that benefits the entire Queensland football community, from grassroots to advanced competitions.
“The rollout of the multi-faceted investment plan is a key focus for Football Queensland in 2026 and beyond, reinforcing the crucial role our referees play in the delivery of the game while driving long-term improvements in recruitment, development and retention.
“We’re also investing in match day coaching, enhanced delivery of statewide development curriculum and support for regional match officials, and improved technology to streamline appointments and fixturing. Our ultimate goal with the introduction of these initiatives is to give referees greater clarity, support and confidence throughout the season.”
Football Queensland is continuing to strengthen its referee department with new roles to support clubs’ delivery of the Club Referee strategy and the appointment of FIFA referee Alex King as Head of Advanced Match Officials, while streamlining access to referee apparel.
Ahead of the 2026 season, Football Queensland has also launched a new Club Support Hub, which includes an FQ Referee Support portal, giving referees and club administrators one-on-one access to advice and support from FQ’s Customer Service Team.
Click here to view an overview of the 10-point transformational plan.
