The new Framework, released by Touch Football Australia on Monday, aims to modernise how referees learn, progress, and perform, with a focus on game outcomes rather than just ticking accreditation boxes.
Under the new structure, the traditional six-level system is being replaced with four referee levels that reflect the environment in which officials referee. Referees will now be classified as Affiliate Referee, Representative Graded Referee, State Graded Referee, or National Graded Referee.
Click here to view the new framework
Referees who currently hold a Level 1 badge will be transitioned to the Affiliate Referee classification. Level 2 and 3 referees will become Representative Graded Referees, Level 4 and 5 will become State Graded Referees, and those who have achieved Level 6 will now be recognised as National Graded Referees.
TFA has confirmed that the prestigious State (Blue) and National (Black) badges will be retained under the new system, continuing to recognise the high standard these levels represent.
New 'Affiliate' referees will be introduced to the game through a new three-hour face-to-face course. Referees looking to progress further can complete the Representative Referee Theory Course via eLearning in The Nest, followed by grading opportunities at designated representative events.
State and National Grading opportunities will be limited to major events, with the State grading taking place once per year at each state or territory’s flagship event and the National grading will be available at The NTL Championships each year in March.
For referees who simply wish to officiate in their local competitions, there’s no obligation to pursue further gradings. TFA has made it clear that referees at the Affiliate level can continue to enjoy the social and community aspects of officiating without pressure to progress through the system.
To support ongoing development, referees will also have access to an annual update module from June each year. These modules, developed in collaboration with the National Referee Squad, will provide insights into rule interpretations, trends in the game, and modern officiating approaches.
TFA has also revealed that new referee badges will be distributed to attendees at the postponed NTL Championships in May, with a broader rollout planned during the 2025–26 season.
The new Framework officially comes into effect on 1 May, with referee profiles in The Nest being transitioned throughout April.
TTRA members seeking more information about how this transition will affect them are encouraged to speak with the TTRA or visit the referee section of the Touch Football Australia website - https://touchfootball.com.au/referee.