Umpiring
Play a role in WA’s favourite game
Umpiring keeps the game fair, fast and fun for everyone. Whether it’s on local ovals, or at elite levels, umpires play a vital role in shaping the spirit of the sport. It’s a dynamic, rewarding way to stay connected to the game, building lifelong skills.
Keen to try umpiring? Our Umpiring Come and Try sessions are being held at the start of 2026 across the Perth metro area. They’re a great opportunity to learn more about umpiring, ask questions, and give it a try in a supportive environment. Click on the button below to find out more.
Umpire Development Programs
Explore our Umpire Development Programs, designed to support aspiring and community umpires at every stage of their journey.
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Umpire Development Pathway
The Umpire Development Pathway is for aspiring umpires like you. Consider this your one-stop show for everything you need to know to take umpiring to the next level.
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Community Accelerator Program
The Community Accelerator Program engaged aspiring Junior Community Field Umpires in a targeted development program in the Perth Football League.
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Community Umpire Training Program
The Community Umpire training Program is designed to support the development of community umpires across Australia and provide resources to community umpiring clubs that facilitate training.
Women and girls in umpiring
We offer dedicated programs and support pathways designed to inspire and empower more women and girls to get involved in umpiring.
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Experience Hubs
Experience hubs are local, small-group sessions that connect female umpires and strengthen their skills in a supportive environment. Across the season, participants can attend a series of hub events in their area to gain confidence and practical experience.
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National Women’s Umpire Development Program
The National Women’s Umpire Development program supports aspiring junior and regional umpires through structured development pathway. It provides targeted learning and mentoring to help participants progress and perform at higher levels.
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Women and Girls Umpire Liaisons
Each local umpiring club included dedicated Women and Girls Umpiring Liaisons who offer guidance, encouragement, and support. They help female umpires build confidence, stay connected, and navigate their development throughout the season.
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Season Launch Day
The Umpire Your Way Launch Day is a welcoming event for new and returning female umpires, designed to build excitement and connection ahead of the season. Held annually, it brings participants together for inspiration, information, and on-field experiences.
Umpire Coach
Development Programs
Our Umpire Coach Development Programs provide a clear pathway for coaches at every stage of their journey. Whether you’re just starting out or working toward pathway coaching, these programs offer flexible, practical support to help you grow and succeed.
Frequently asked questions
- Field Umpire – Be in the heart of the game, officiate the laws of the game, ensuring fair play.
- Boundary Umpire – Moves along the boundary, judging whether the ball is out of bounds or out on the full, and returns the ball to play with a throw-in.
- Goal Umpire –Are responsible for deciding if a goal or behind has been scored, signalling the score and recording it on your goal cards.
- Umpire Coach – Help mentor new umpires and guide them to success.
Simply complete the registration form and you will be contacted about the next steps.
A positive attitude and a willingness to learn are key. After registering, you’ll be expected to:
- Register on our online Umpires database, Officials HQ (its’ free and easy)
- Have a valid Working With Children (WWC) check
You can train weekly with your local umpiring club to develop your skills. We also have Coaches & Mentors who provide on-site feedback during match days, especially during your first few games.
To order your umpiring apparel, please visit the ISC Junior & Community Umpires portal
Umpiring itself is free. Weekly training sessions come at no cost. The only initial expense is the uniform, but you’ll quickly earn this back within 2-3 games.
Acknowledgement of Country
WA Football acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the many lands across Western Australia where we train, play, and come together through football. We pay our respects to Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all First Nations people. We recognise the deep and continuing contribution First Nations peoples make to our game and our communities.
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