Becoming a touch footy referee is easier than you might think, and with Touch Football Australia’s new referee education framework, the first step is the Affiliate Referee course. This entry-level accreditation replaces the old Level 1 Referee course and is designed to teach you the fundamentals of officiating — from understanding the rules to positioning, signalling, and managing the game of touch football.
Unlike the old system, the Affiliate Referee course is now entirely face-to-face and runs for just three hours. There’s no eLearning to complete beforehand, making it quicker and simpler to get started.
Step 1 – Attend an Affiliate Referee Course
You only need to attend one of our upcoming workshops:
Workshop 1: Sunday 24 August 2025
Workshop 2: Saturday 6 September 2025
Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM (arrive by 8:45 AM)
Venue: Queens Park, North Ward
The course will give you the knowledge and skills to confidently referee at the local level, and from there you can gain experience, build your confidence, and work towards higher accreditations if you choose.
Step 2 – Get Out on the Field
Once you’ve completed the course, you’re ready to start refereeing in Townsville Touch Football competitions. You’ll be supported by experienced referees and referee coaches who can help you develop your skills and progress at your own pace.
Step 3 – Explore the Pathway
From the Affiliate Referee accreditation, you can advance to your Representative grading and beyond, opening opportunities to officiate at regional, state, national, and international events.
Cost: Free for registered members (playing, refereeing, or coaching in 2025) who complete the enrolment process via https://townsvilletouch.com.au/courses (otherwise its $40 non-refundable).
Enrolment is quick and easy — choose your preferred date, complete the online form, and you’re set.
Whether you’re looking for a way to give back to the game, earn some extra income, or take on a new challenge, becoming a touch footy referee is a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Enrol today and take the first step in your refereeing journey!