Refereeing
Referees play a vital role in Touch Football, ensuring our game is played in a fair, safe and enjoyable environment for all participants. Becoming an accredited referee is an important step in ensuring that you are equipped with the knowledge of the Rules of the game, but also the latest on-field game information, and skills to manage and create a safe and enjoyable environment for all. It is also a great way to remain fit and active and participate in our game.
REFEREE REGISTRATION THROUGH MYSIDELINE FOR AFFILIATE COMPETITIONS
Over recent years, Affiliates and NSW Touch Association have faced ongoing challenges managing referee information at a local level. Inconsistent data, limited visibility of accreditations, difficulties confirming eligibility and insurance coverage, and reliance on manual spreadsheets have made referee management increasingly complex.
To address this, NSW Touch Association will introduce state-wide referee registration through MySideline, commencing with a staged rollout in the 2026 Affiliate Season 1 competitions. This initiative aligns referee management with existing player registration processes, creating a consistent, transparent, and compliant system across the state.
The introduction of MySideline referee registration will provide Affiliates with accurate, centralised referee records, improved compliance with event requirements, and enhanced communication between referees, Affiliates, and NSWTA. It also supports alignment with Touch Football Australia’s National Participation Data Policy, ensuring referee participation is appropriately recognised and reported.
From Season 1 onwards, Affiliates will be required to activate referee registration within their MySideline competitions and ensure all referees — new and returning — register prior to the season commencing. Affiliates will be able to view and manage referees directly through the MySideline dashboard, supporting smoother administration and continuity across leadership transitions.
Affiliates will have to follow the following steps to ensure they are compliant moving forward:
1. Log into their MySideline and select “Products”
2. Create a new product with the member type as “Referee”, gender type as “All”, price as “$0”, and status as “Open”
3. Click “Add”
4. Once the product is setup, ensure referees within the competition are registered
Touch Football Australia has recently released a whole new education and development framework targeted at better supporting, developing and nurturing our referees in the sport.
The new framework streamlines the referee pathway in our sport and provides opportunities for ongoing development for officials in their respective officiating environments.
The framework will be rolled out nation wide across April, with it coming into effect May1st, which includes the first use of the Affiliate Referee Course package, endorsed by TFA.
Behind The Whistle is our bi-monthly look into people, stories and experiences that shape community touch football refereeing across New South Wales. Each edition will highlight referees from our Affiliates, share insights, development opportunities, and provide practical resources to support your journey.
Refereeing is more than just making calls on the field; it’s about leadership, connection, and the individuals who keep our game thriving at the grassroots level. Whether you’re just starting or have years of experience, this space is here to both recognise your contribution and help you grow.
