Surf Sports Officials

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Support safe, fair and successful competitions

Officials play a vital role in surf sports, ensuring events are safe, fair and efficiently delivered.

From junior carnivals through to state and national Open championships, officials support every aspect of event delivery — including marshalling, judging, recording and timekeeping.

  • Officiating is a practical way to get involved in surf sports - no competing required.

    You might be:

    • A parent or supporter

    • An athlete transitioning out of competition

    • A member looking to contribute to events

    • A club volunteer helping meet officials quotas

    You don’t need experience to start — there is a clear pathway to build your skills.

  • Depending on your level, officials may:

    • Marshall competitors

    • Record results

    • Time events and judge finishes

    • Manage competition areas

    • Ensure events follow Surf Sports rules

  • Officiating is more than just supporting events.

    You will:

    • Contribute to the surf sports community

    • Build communication and leadership skills

    • Gain experience in decision-making and event management

    • Progress through a recognised national pathway

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How to become an Official

  1. Speak with your club or Surf Sports contact

  2. Complete the Community Officiating Essential Skills course through Australian Sports Commission

  3. Enrol in a Core / Youth Official course

  4. Gain experience at local competitions

Officiating pathway

There are three levels of officials, each building on experience.

  • Children in life jackets and helmets participating in a race on the sandy beach near the ocean with a clear blue sky.

    Core / Youth Official

    Your starting point in officiating.

    What you do:

    Officiate at junior carnivals (up to U14)

    Roles include: 

    • Marshall

    • Timekeeper

    • Recorder

    • Finish Judge

    Key points:

    • Supported by experienced officials

    • Focus on learning and gaining confidence

    • Suitable for members 15+

  • Group of people preparing for a kayaking race, holding their paddles and wearing helmets.

    Technical Official

    Build your experience and take on more responsibility.

    What you do:

    Officiate at club and state events

    Take on more specialised roles, such as: 

    • Starter

    • Check Starter

    • Advanced judging roles

    Key points:

    • Greater responsibility

    • Works across a broader range of events

    • Builds depth of officiating knowledge

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    Senior Official

    Senior Officials take on leadership roles at competitions.

    What you do:

    Officiate at state and national events

    Lead key areas such as: 

    • Referee

    • Chief Judge

    • Course Supervisor

    Key points:

    • Mentor and support other officials

    • Lead event delivery and decision-making

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Step 1 - Officiating essential skills (ASC)

Before beginning your surf sports coaching accreditation, members must complete the Australian Sports Commission’s Officiating Essential Skills course provides the foundations for creating safe, inclusive and enjoyable competition environments for all participants, and is the first step for all officials.

Visit Australian Sports Commission site
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Step 2 - SLS Officials Training & accreditation

Officials training combines:

  • Online learning (eLearning)

  • Practical experience

  • Ongoing development and mentoring

Officials need to maintain their accreditation to stay current, by officiating regularly, recording experience in a logbook and completing reaccreditation requirements

Learn more
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Officials Resources

If you’re interested in becoming an official or progressing your accreditation, contact your club Surf Sports representative or the SLST Surf Sports Coordinator.

SLS eLearning (Officials Courses)
Officials Resources & FAQs
Officials Logbook User Guide
Officials Reacccreditation