
HOW TO BECOME A REFEREE – IMPORTANT
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- Course name
- Preferred date and location
- Participant name
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Referee Course
How to become a referee
1. Log into eTrainU
To log into etrainu you will need the following information: The FFA number of the person attending the course. If you have an FFA number, but have forgotten it or are unsure, please email learningcentre@footballaustralia.com.au with your Full Name and DOB.
Follow these simple steps to log in:
2) Learner (Learning Centre Account) is the correct eTrainU log in option.
3) As you haven’t set up an eTrainU account yet and don’t have a password, press “Forgot Password” (below the LOG IN button). Enter FFA number as the username (no space is required before or after), then press SEND.
4) Once you have received an email, proceed to resetting your password.
If you don’t receive an email within 5-10 minutes, then this may be because your FFA number is linked to a different email address when you originally registered in PlayFootball. If this occurs, please email learningcentre@footballaustralia.com.au
Go back to the eTrainU homepage, select Learner (Learning Centre Account), and use your FFA Number and newly created password to log in.
Please note the following:
If you are new to Football and don’t have a current FFA Number, please register your interest in becoming a referee here: New to Football/New Referee and don’t have an FFA Number
If your FFA Number was originally linked to a parent/guardian email address, you will need to separate your accounts. Do this by sending a request to: learningcentre@footballaustralia.com.au
If you have any issues with logging in, please email: learningcentre@footballaustralia.com.au
2. Enrol and complete the free online Laws Of The Game Course
Now you are logged into etrainU, you will need to complete the Online Laws of the Game Modules. Without this being completed in your Skills Passport you will not be able to enrol for a course.
To access and complete the Online Laws of the Game Module go to:
1) Training Library
2) Referees
3) View Courses
4) Laws of the Game
5) Enrol
Complete all modules, and upon completion you will be emailed a completion certificate.
3. Enrol on etrainU for your referee course modules
Once you have completed the Online Laws of the Game Modules, you will be eligible to enrol to a Junior Football Match Official (FA Fee $33) or (RPL) Senior Football Match Official (FA Fee $55) course.
Using etrainU locate the course you want to enrol for:
1) Training Event
2) Location Search Bar and Enter Your Location
3) Change Search Radius (if required)
4) Scroll to the Calendar
5) Click on the correct Referee course
6) Enrol
Once enrolled in your course, you will then need to complete the online pre-learning modules for your course. Upon completion, you will receive a certificate for this.
4. Register on Squadi
After completing all of the above steps, you can now finalise your registration to become a referee with Football Queensland on Squadi.
If you do not register on Squadi you will not be eligible to receive your first-year kit or be appointed to matches by Football Queensland.
Complete your registration by following our guide here.
If you need further assistance on how to get an appointment through Football Queensland, please email appointments@footballqueensland.com.au
If you have any other enquiries about refereeing in Queensland please contact referees@footballqueensland.com.au
Types of Referee Courses
Community
Game Leader – Mini Refs
The Game Leader course (also known as Mini Refs) gives boys and girls aged 10 – 12 a basic understanding of fouls and basic refereeing techniques and is used in non-competitive small-sided football.
Junior Football Match Official (Level 4)
To undertake this training program, you must be at least 13 years of age and have successfully passed the online Laws of the Game within the past two years.
The program consists of theory modules, in person course, practical sessions and practical mentoring in matches as a referee and assistant referee. Upon completion of all components referees will be officially qualified as a Junior Football Match Official (Level 4) Referee. The qualification is valid for a period of up to 4 years.
All first-year referees receive a registration pack containing a Kappa uniform (teal shirt, shorts & socks), whistle, flag and cards.
Senior Football Match Official (Level 3) Recognised Prior Learning (RPL)
This course is designed for players or coaches with experience in the game that wish to become a referee. They must be at least 20 years of age and have 10 years playing or coaching experience.
The program consists of theory modules, in person course, practical sessions and practical mentoring in matches as a referee and assistant referee. Upon completion of all components referees will be officially qualified as a Senior Football Match Official (Level 3) Referee. The qualification is valid for a period of up to 4 years.
All first-year referees receive a registration pack containing a Kappa uniform (teal shirt, shorts & socks), whistle, flag and cards.
Senior Football Match Official (Level 3)
To undertake this training program, you must be at least 16 years of age and hold a current Junior Football Match Official (Level 4) Referee qualification.
You now need to complete the Senior Football Match Official National Online Element before registering for for the inperson Senior Match Official (Level 3) course.
The program consists of theory modules, in person course, practical sessions and practical mentoring in matches as a referee and assistant referee. Upon completion of all component’s referees will be officially qualified as a Senior Football Match Official (Level 3) Referee. The qualification is valid for a period of up to 4 years.
Emerging Talent
Emerging Education (Level 2 Theory)
The Emerging Education course is designed for match officials aspiring to officiate low levels of semi-professional football. This course focuses on more advanced techniques, positioning, and decision-making, allowing participants to elevate their officiating skills and understanding of the game. It is an essential step for those looking to make their mark in the semi-pro football environment.
To undertake this course you must be at least 18 years old and hold a current Senior Football Match Official (Level 3) qualification.
Emerging Referee (Level 2)
The Emerging Referee course is practical assessment for individuals seeking to progress through the Referee pathway. Participants will officiate as a referee in Member Federation semi-professional competitions and be provided ongoing feedback across the year. This course equips referees with the tools and knowledge needed to officiate at more competitive levels and excel in their roles.
To undertake this course you must be at least 18 years old and hold a current Senior Football Match Official (Level 3) qualification.
Advanced
Advance Education (Level 1 Theory)
The Advanced Education course is intended for match officials with ambitions to officiate at the highest levels of semi-professional football within their member federation, such as the National Premier League and beyond. This course aims to create referees with a greater football understanding required for top-tier competitions, offering participants the opportunity to become more proficient match mangers and reach the pinnacle of their officiating careers.
To undertake this training program, you must be at least 18 years of age, hold a current Emerging Referee (Level 2) or Emerging Education (Level 2 Theory) Referee qualification and hold a Community Referee Coach (Level 3 Assessor), or higher, qualification.
Advance Referee (Level 1)
The Advanced Referee course is the practical component for individuals looking to progress through the Referee pathway and officiate in high-level matches. Participants will officiate as an referee in Member Federation National Premier League competitions and be provided ongoing feedback across the year. This course equips referees with the skills and confidence required to take center stage in high-level football matches and reach the highest levels of their profession.
To undertake this training program, you must be at least 18 years of age, hold a current Emerging Referee (Level 2) or Emerging Education (Level 2 Theory) Referee qualification and hold a Community Referee Coach (Level 3 Assessor), or higher, qualification.
If you’re interested in course, please contact the FQ Referee Department at referees@footballqueensland.com.au
Assessor (Referee Coach)
Community Referee Coach (Assessor Level 3)
The Community Referee Coach (Assessor Level 3), is a vital role for individuals passionate about nurturing officiating talent at the grassroots level. This training equips coaches with the skills to assess and mentor community-level referees effectively. Participants will learn how to provide constructive feedback, identify areas for improvement, and support referees in their developmental journey. This stage is crucial for those committed to fostering a positive officiating culture within local communities and ensuring the continued growth of referees at the foundational level.
To undertake this course you must hold a current Senior Football Match Official (Level 3) qualification.
Emerging Referee Coach (Assessor Level 2)
The Emerging Referee Coach (Assessor Level 2), is designed for experienced coaches seeking to guide referees through the intermediate stages of their officiating careers. This course delves into advanced assessment techniques, mentorship strategies, and comprehensive feedback methodologies. Coaches will gain the skills to assess referees operating in more competitive environments and provide targeted guidance for their continued development. This stage is ideal for those dedicated to elevating officiating standards and supporting referees as they progress through the emerging stages of their careers.
To undertake this course you must hold a current Emerging Referee (Level 2) qualification.
If you’re interested in this course, please contact the FQ Referee Department at referees@footballqueensland.com.au
Advanced Referee Coach (Assessor Level 1)
The Advanced Referee Coach (Assessor Level 1), represents the pinnacle of referee coaching expertise. This training is tailored for seasoned coaches looking to assess and mentor referees at the highest levels of competition. Participants will delve into complex officiating scenarios, advanced decision-making processes, and sophisticated feedback methodologies. Coaches at this level play a critical role in shaping the future of officiating by providing expert guidance in line with current trends to referees aspiring to reach the pinnacle of their careers. This stage is essential for those committed to excellence in officiating and contributing to the overall advancement of the sport.
To undertake this course you must hold a current Advance Referee (Level 1) qualification.
If you’re interested in this course, please contact the FQ Referee Department at referees@footballqueensland.com.au
Educator (Instructor)
Community Referee Educator (Instructor Level 3)
The Community Referee Educator (Instructor Level 3), is designed for individuals with a passion for fostering grassroots officiating. This course equips participants with the skills and knowledge to instruct and mentor community-level referees effectively. Emphasising practical teaching methods and tailored communication, participants will learn to facilitate entry-level referee courses, ensuring that new officials receive comprehensive and engaging training. This stage is essential for those committed to nurturing the growth of referees at grassroots level within local communities.
To become an Educator you must hold a minimum Community Referee Coach (Level 3) qualification.
Emerging Referee Educator (Instructor Level 2)
The Emerging Referee Educator (Instructor Level 2), is a more advanced stage for individuals looking to contribute to the development of referees at a higher level. This course focuses on refining instructional techniques, providing insights into advanced officiating concepts, and preparing instructors to work with referees and referee coaches aspiring to to be involved in competitive and talent development environments. Participants will delve into advanced teaching methodologies equipping them to guide referees and referee coaches toward higher levels of proficiency. This stage is ideal for those dedicated to shaping the next generation of skilled and knowledgeable referees and referee coaches within the talent pathway.
If you’re interested in this course, please contact the FQ Referees Department at referees@footballqueensland.com.au
Futsal
Futsal Referee Course
To become a Futsal referee you need to undertake both the Futsal Laws of the Game and Futsal Level 3 Referee courses. These are normally conducted over two days. The cost to attend this course is $100.
Futsal Conversion Course
This is a one day course to up-skill current referees to being Futsal referees as well. You must have been an outdoor referee for at least one registered season prior to registering for this course. The cost to attend this course is $50.
Other Courses
Walking Football
The Walking Football referee course is a pioneering initiative designed to introduce participants to the nuances of officiating this unique version of the game. The course serves as the foundational step for those who have completed the online quiz.
Participants must be a minimum of 14 years old and registered to attend this 6-hour program.
Beach Football
Powerchair Football
Para Football
FIND A REFEREE COURSE
Can’t find a course near you? Click here to submit a Referee Course Expression of Interest.
- Course Type
- Club Referee
- Junior Football Match Official
- Senior Football Match Official (RPL)
- Senior Football Match Official
- Emerging Match Official
- Advanced Match Official
- Futsal
- Walking Football

(POSTPONED) Toowoomba Grammar School
