Umpire
The Fundamentals
How Do I Get Started Umpiring?
Simply complete the registration form, and you will be contacted about the next steps.
AFL Play | Register to be an Umpire
Ready to become an umpire? Register through the AFL Play link, or if you’re new to umpiring, submit a PFL Expression of Interest and we’ll guide you through the process.
PFL Umpire Expression of Interest Form
Not sure which umpiring area you’d like to get involved in? No worries! Complete our Umpiring Expression of Interest form and our Umpiring Coordinator will be in touch to help you get started.
What’s the Difference Between a Club Umpire and a PFL Panel Umpire?
Club Umpire
Club umpires are appointed directly by a club and typically officiate that club’s home matches. They are paid by the club and do not participate in the PFL’s panel umpire training or development program.
PFL Panel Umpire
PFL Panel Umpires are appointed by the Perth Football League and are allocated matches across the competition. They receive payment, attend weekly training, participate in ongoing education and development, and are supported by the League’s umpiring program.
What Umpiring Roles Are Available?
- Field Umpire – Be in the heart of the game, officiate the laws of the game, ensuring fair play.
- Boundary Umpire – Moves along the boundary, judging whether the ball is out of bounds or out on the full, and returns the ball to play with a throw-in.
- Goal Umpire – Are responsible for deciding if a goal or behind has been scored, signalling the score and recording it on your goal cards.
- Umpire Coach – Help mentor new umpires and guide them to success.
How Much Does It Cost to Umpire?
Umpiring itself is free. Weekly training sessions come at no cost. The only initial expense is the uniform, but you’ll quickly earn this back within 2-3 games.
What Coaching Will I Receive?
You can train weekly with your local umpiring club to develop your skills. We also have Coaches & Mentors who provide on-site feedback during match days, especially during your first few games.
Who to Contact?
Matt Laycock is the Perth Football League’s Umpiring Coordinator and is your primary point of contact for all umpiring enquiries.
Quick Access Resources
Umpire WA TV is your one-stop hub, packed with a wide range of videos covering boundary, goal and field umpiring, along with key skills and more.
Access the AFL Laws of the Game via the official mobile booklet.
The PFL By-Laws outline the rules, regulations and procedures that govern the operation of the Perth Football League and its competitions.
Explore additional policies relevant to the Perth Football League and its competitions.
Uniform Requirements
All umpires are required to wear the green ISC shirt and socks. PFL-appointed umpires must wear ISC shorts, while club-appointed umpires may wear grey or black shorts.
Need to stock up on umpire gear? Pre-order your kit through the portal. Please allow 2–3 weeks for delivery, and note that sizing tends to run slightly small.
Community Accelerator Program
The Community Accelerator Program is designed for junior field umpires looking to build their skills, experience and confidence. It includes weekly Monday training with the PFL panel, optional Thursday sessions, game appointments on Saturdays, and access to mentoring and development opportunities, including pathways into State League programs.
Contact our Umpire Coordinator
Want to learn more? Contact Matt via email to discuss how to get started.
Women and Girls Umpiring
WA Football offer dedicated programs and support pathways designed to inspire and empower more women and girls to get involved in umpiring.
Explore WA Football resources for women and girls in umpiring, including experience hubs, development programs, season launch events, umpire liaisons and more.
Featured Story: A Clear Pathway for Female Umpires
Layla McEachen made the decision to step into umpiring and hasn’t looked back. Now entering her second season with the Perth Football League, she reflects on a first year that laid the foundation for continued growth.
