BACKGROUND
The AFL is responsible for the supervision, administration and coordination of Umpire Accreditation Programs nationally. This includes the development of resources, materials and support services (such as the National Database). AFL Queensland is responsible for the deployment of these programs in Queensland and the Northern Rivers of NSW, including resource distribution, support and administration.
COMPULSORY ACCREDITATION
In October 2012, the AFL introduced compulsory umpire accreditation. This will bring it in line with compulsory coach accreditation which was implemented in 1999.
This policy will require all umpires that officiate within any official Australian Football match, to have completed or be involved in some form of Accreditation program. These include:
- Level 1 Field, Boundary and Goal Umpire Accreditation
- Level 2 Field, Boundary and Goal Umpire Accreditation
- Level 3 Field Umpire Accreditation (NEAFL Umpires only)
- AFL Club Umpire Program
- AFLQ Junior Football Umpiring Program
- AFL Green Shirt Umpire Program
Umpires who have not completed or are not involved in achieving their Level One umpire accreditation certification would not be eligible to officiate in official Australian Football matches.
LEAGUE UMPIRES ACCREDITATION STRUCTURE
The table below provides basic guidelines on the expected levels of accreditation, relevant competition and years of experience for each level. The program for all three disciplines commences with a combined basic level of knowledge and then specialises in each. The program is sequential so that umpires must progress from level 1 to level 2 and then to level 3 in the case of field.
Level | Field | Boundary | Goal | Yrs Exp | Notes |
1 | Junior / Youth / Senior | Junior / Youth / Senior | Junior / Youth / Senior | 1- 2 | Generic Modules |
2 | Senior Community Football | Senior | Senior | 2 - 4 | Specific Modules |
3 | State League | 4 + | Specific Modules | ||
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The AFL Club Umpire accreditation lasts for four years. Participants in the Junior Football Umpiring Program need to complete their appropriate course yearly.
For further information of Umpire Accreditation please contact your Regional Umpire Manager or AFLQ Community Umpiring Development Officer, Pierce Field on 07 3033 5439 or pierce.field@aflq.com.au.
