Becoming an athletics official can be a rewarding experience for those who are passionate about the sport of track and field.
As an official, you will play a vital role in ensuring that events are run fairly, safely, and efficiently. You will have the opportunity to be part of the action and contribute to the sport by helping to enforce the rules and make important decisions. You will also have the opportunity to develop your knowledge of the sport and gain a deeper understanding of the events and their technical aspects.
Additionally, being an athletics official can be a great way to give back to the sport and support its development at the local, state, and national levels. Whether you are looking to take on a leadership role or simply to get involved in the sport you love, becoming an athletics official can be a fulfilling and meaningful way to get involved in the athletics community.
Officials enjoy free membership as well as free education and accreditation courses.
Officials in Schools
Arrange accredited track & field and cross-country officials to your school, district, region or zone sporting events so your competitions are tailored to your students’ abilities and follow the required athletics guidelines.
To book officials, simply complete and return the form for either summer or winter competition to Athletics Victoria at least 21 days prior to your event.
Contact Business Support Leader, Craig Morrow at (03) 7032 8400 and select option 4, or email us at officials@athsvic.org.au
Upcoming Education Seminars
Officiating Requirements
To be an Official with Athletics Victoria you must:
- Abide by the Child Safe Standards (see our Child Safety Statement of Commitment and Child Safety Code of Conduct)
- Complete the Play By The Rules Child Protection Course
- Complete an Officiating Course (see below)
- Have an active Athletics Victoria Membership
Officials Membership
Official membership provides access to insurance and member discounts through our partner program. This membership does not include club membership fees.
Officials must complete Level 0 at a minimum. In addition, it will be mandatory that Officials maintain their current qualification or seek a higher qualification within four years or risk the possibility of being downgraded.
Official Membership – FREE ($0)
Australian Athletics Officials Education Scheme (AAOES)
Becoming a Victorian Official is an opportunity to work in a fun and welcoming environment, learn new skills and provide Victorian athletes with the opportunity to progress through the junior and senior ranks. With numerous roles and events including; cross country, road, walks, track and field, there is an opportunity for everyone.
The Australian Athletics Officials’ Education Scheme (AAOES) is a joint initiative between Athletics Australia and Jetstar Little Athletics and will provide a seamless and transparent education pathway for all Victoria Officials. With the endorsement of the Australian Sport Commission, a new online learning portal has been introduced along with face-to-face course delivery.
Officials Qualification Levels
| Level 0 | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Level 4 & 5 |
| The ‘Introductory Officiating General Principles’ online course has been developed to assist officials in learning the basic skills they will need to officiate effectively. This is not compulsory for Athletics officials but is strongly recommended. | Level 1 is the entry-level (first athletics specifics level) of the new Australian Athletics Officials Education Scheme. What Is It? Candidates must complete online learning and pass a multiple-choice quiz. The learning and quiz will focus on ensuring the candidate has a basic understanding of the rules of the discipline they are attempting. | Level 2 is the next stage of the AAOES. It is targeted at Officials wishing to be appointed as a Chief or Referee at the State level and a Chief at the National level. What Is it? In Level 2, candidates will be required to complete practical requirements, attend seminars, complete online learning components and complete an exam. Rather than just testing the rules, candidates will be required to apply the rules and interpret certain situations. | Level 3 is the highest accreditation offered in Australia. This will include seminars, practical components and a written exam. As Level 3 is still being developed, candidates can complete the current Level A exam from the old scheme of Little Athletics and Athletics Australia. | Levels 4 & 5 are qualifications delivered at the International Level. In most cases, achieving these levels will mean continued demonstration of a high level of officiating within Australia, and being invited to attend. |