Why Are Some Games Without Referees?

Football Victoria is working at maximum capacity to appoint as many referees as possible. However, there are currently more matches than available referees, meaning some games will proceed without an FV-appointed neutral referee.

When this occurs, clubs are required to provide a volunteer referee so games can still go ahead.

How the FV Referee Appointment Process Works

Monday–Thursday

Football Victoria appoints referees to matches based on:

• referee availability

• location

• competition requirements

Thursday Afternoon (~1pm)

Any matches still uncovered are shared with registered referees.

Thursday Evening (5pm Deadline)

Referees confirm which uncovered matches they can officiate.

Friday Evening (After 5pm)

Appointments are finalised.
If a referee has not been allocated by this point, it is extremely unlikely an FV referee will attend.

How to Check if Your Game Has a Referee

On DRIBL- A whistle icon will appear next to the fixture if a referee has been appointed.

On the Match Sheet- The referee will appear as an allocated official within the fixture details.

If No Referee Is Appointed

Football Victoria Rules of Competition require a volunteer referee to be appointed for the game to commence.

The volunteer referee should then be added to the DRIBL match sheet as an “Official”.

Firstly — thank you. Without volunteer referees, many junior games would not be able to proceed.

Your role is not to referee a perfect professional match. Your role is to:

• keep the game safe

• apply rules fairly

• support a positive environment

• allow players to enjoy the game

Before the Game

Please ensure:

• both teams have an active marshal

• coaches and managers know you are volunteering

• players understand respectful behaviour is expected

If sideline behaviour becomes inappropriate, speak with the team marshal or coach.

Expectations for Volunteer Referees

Please:

• remain calm and respectful

• speak appropriately to players and spectators

• apply rules consistently

• keep the game flowing where possible

• use common sense and flexibility

• remember advantage where appropriate

• prioritise safety and enjoyment

Please Avoid:

• swearing

• arguing with players or spectators

• reacting emotionally

• sarcastic or dismissive comments

• escalating conflict

Remember: players, coaches and spectators will often follow the referee’s tone and behaviour.

Helpful Neutral Referee Phrases

General Decisions

• “Ref’s call.”

• “That’s the decision.”

• “Play on.”

• “Keep going.”

• “We’re continuing.”

• “Let’s move on.”

If Players Question a Decision

• “I’ve made the call.”

• “That’s what I saw.”

• “I understand you disagree.”

• “Let’s focus on the game.”

• “That’s enough discussion, thank you.”

If Emotions Rise

• “Let’s settle down.”

• “Keep it respectful.”

• “We all want a fair game.”

• “Please speak respectfully.”

• “Let’s reset and continue.”

To Spectators

• “Please direct concerns through the coach or marshal.”

• “Thank you — let’s keep it positive for the players.”

Supporting Junior Soccer

Our junior competition relies heavily on volunteers — coaches, managers, marshals and referees. Thank you to everyone who steps in to help create a safe, inclusive and enjoyable match-day experience for players.