Referee Course Information
Become a Referee — Get In the Game
Want to be part of the action without playing on the field? Becoming a referee is a great way to stay involved in sport, build confidence, and earn some extra income while developing valuable life skills.
Whether you’re brand new to officiating or already involved in sport, there’s a clear pathway to get you started.
Getting started
To begin your refereeing journey, simply create or check your participant profile in the NRL Learning Centre: https://learn.mysideline.com.au/
Once your profile is set up, follow the steps provided to register for an upcoming course and take the first step toward becoming a qualified referee.
Step 1: Purchase the course
Locate the course on the QTF website and follow the steps to purchase.
Can’t find a course near you? Have a chat to your Association’s Committee about the possibility of scheduling one.
Step 2: Register to the Face 2 Face session
Provided you have purchased the course, we’ll email you the NRL Learning Centre link one week before the course is scheduled so that you can register to attend the course.
Course Costs
| Course Name | Duration & Format (Approximate only) | Prerequisite | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Affiliate Referee | 3 hours face to face workshop. | Nil | $44.00 |
| Representative Referee Theory Course | Online | Affiliate Referee Accreditation ASC Community Officiating Essential Skills (if not previously completed) | $44.00 |
| Representative Referee Grading | On field at event | Representative Referee Theory Course Is endorsed by their Affiliate/Club to seek Grading at the event | |
| State Referee Grading | On field at event | Is endorsed by their Affiliate/Club to seek upgrade at the event Endorsed by Regional Referee Director and/or State Panel for Upgrade Has held a Representative Referee Grading for a minimum of six (6) months |
need help?
If you experience any issues or have questions about the process, please contact us for support: admin@qldtouch.com.au
FAQS
What are the recommended ages for Referee Courses?
- Affiliate Referee – turning 12 in the calendar year
- Representative Referee Theory Course– turning 13 in the calendar year
- Representative Referee Grading – turning 13 in the calendar year
- State Referee Grading – turning 16 in the calendar year
- National Referee Grading – turning 18 in the calendar year
Will my accreditation from the Nest be recorded in the NRL Learning Centre?
Yes, technical accreditations held in the Nest will be given Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) in the NRL Learning Centre. This process will be undertaken by TFA over the coming months.
If you are registering for a course requiring prerequisites, you can email TFA to request an RPL. Follow the How To Guide to make sure you have a profile in the NRL Learning Centre, then email education@touchfootball.com.au to request and RPL.
I'm registered for a course but can't attend, what should I do?
You should let the course presenter know prior to the course that you can’t attend.
Look for an alternative course and let us know which you’d like to attend and we’ll send you a link to register.
I can't find a course near me - what should I do?
Let someone at your local association know that you are interested in doing a course. They’ll then be able to book one through their regional office.
Who do I contact about course details?
You can contact your Association, your regional office or admin@qldtouch.com.au for support with courses.
Will I get a Certificate?
No, there will be no Certificates provided by the system.