Walking Football NSW provides referee training for people who want to support safe, enjoyable and well-managed walking football across New South Wales.

Whether you are an experienced football referee, a walking football player interested in officiating, or someone completely new to refereeing, our courses can help you develop the knowledge, practical skills and confidence needed to referee walking football.

Qualified referees are essential to the continued growth of the game. They help create a safe and welcoming environment while ensuring matches are played fairly and in the spirit of walking football.

Walking Football Referee Courses

WFNSW offers walking football referee courses delivered by qualified referee educators and assessors.

Training covers the specific rules and principles of walking football, including:

• Identifying running and incorrect walking technique

• Managing physical contact and unsafe play

• Applying rules relating to high balls and heading

• Positioning and movement around the playing area

• Communicating decisions clearly and confidently

• Managing individual and team infringements

• Promoting player safety and respect

• Keeping social games flowing

• Understanding tournament and competition requirements

Walking football has important differences from traditional football. Referees must understand these variations and apply them consistently, while also recognising the social and inclusive nature of the game.

Referee Local Sessions and Competitions

Qualified walking football referees may have opportunities to officiate at a range of playing levels.

These can include weekly social WalkSoccer sessions, community gala days, club tournaments, state competitions and national events. Experienced referees may also have the opportunity to develop towards officiating at international walking football competitions.

Many people begin by refereeing games at their local hub. This provides valuable practical experience in a supportive environment and helps referees build confidence before progressing to larger events.

Players are also encouraged to consider referee training. Player-referees have a strong understanding of the game and can make an important contribution when their team is not playing.

Safety Is the Priority

Safety is the overarching principle of walking football refereeing.

Walking football is designed to provide a lower-impact and accessible version of football, particularly for older adults and people returning to physical activity. Referees play a central role in maintaining that environment.

This means identifying running, managing contact and addressing unsafe behaviour before it affects other players. Referees are expected to communicate confidently, apply decisions consistently and encourage everyone to participate in the spirit of the game.

While individual hubs may have different playing groups and local conditions, safety must always guide decisions on the field.

Referee Development and Assessment

Referee development does not finish when a course is completed.

Practical experience, observation and feedback are important parts of becoming a confident walking football referee. Qualified assessors and referee educators can provide guidance to help officials improve their positioning, communication, decision-making and application of the rules.

Referees may also be invited to attend refresher sessions or further development opportunities as walking football competitions and referee pathways continue to grow.

Who Can Become a Referee?

You do not need to be a current traditional football referee to begin walking football referee training.

Courses may be suitable for:

• Current or former football referees

• Walking football players

• Hub coordinators and volunteers

• Coaches and team officials

• Community members interested in supporting the game

A willingness to learn, communicate clearly and promote a safe and respectful playing environment is essential.

Register Your Interest

Walking Football NSW is building a network of qualified referees across metropolitan and regional NSW.

Register your interest in an upcoming walking football referee course or contact WFNSW to discuss training for your hub, club or association.

From weekly social games to tournaments, State Cups and international events, walking football refereeing provides an opportunity to stay involved in the game, support your community and help walking football continue to grow.