Football Australia has today announced the launch of its Female Referee Mentor Program, a new national initiative designed to support, empower and retain female referees by connecting them with experienced officials from across the elite game.
Delivered under Football Australia’s Ref Our Game framework and supported by funding from the Australian Government’s ‘Play Our Way’ grant, the program pairs emerging female referees with current and former A‑League officials, providing structured one‑on‑one mentorship, professional development opportunities and access to a strong national support network.
The announcement coincides with the start of Female Football Week 2026, a nationwide celebration recognising the contribution of women and girls to football at every level. The launch of the Female Referee Mentor Program underscores Football Australia’s commitment to supporting participation, leadership and development opportunities beyond the playing field, shining a spotlight on refereeing as a vital and valued pathway for women within the game.
Targeting referees within the crucial 18–26 age bracket, the program aims to address key retention challenges by fostering confidence, belonging and clarity around refereeing pathways, while equipping participants with the skills required to progress at the highest levels of officiating.
Each mentee will be matched with a mentor for six sessions across the program period, receiving personalised match feedback, guidance on performance and progression, and insights into life as an elite referee. The list of mentors includes distinguished Australian referees including Casey Reibelt and Lara Lee.
Participants will also take part in workshops focused on leadership, confidence, communication, media skills and wellbeing, alongside opportunities to observe training environments and experience A‑League matchdays.
Quote attributable to Football Australia Chief Executive Officer, Martin Kugeler:
“Football Australia has always been a leader in inclusion, setting a global standard for female leadership and development.
“This program reflects a strong commitment to building a more inclusive and sustainable officiating pathway and creating meaningful connections, increasing confidence and ensuring talented female referees feel supported to stay in the game.
“With the backing of the Australian Sports Commission, we are able to invest in the next generation of officials and strengthen the pathways for women in refereeing at every level, ultimately helping to grow female leadership and representation across football in Australia.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Sport Anika Wells:
“The Albanese Government’s $200 million Play Our Way program is the most significant commitment ever to women and girls sporting programs and facilities and it’s making a real difference.
“We want to see more girls and women involved in sport at every level and supporting programs like this helps make that happen.”
In addition to individual mentorship, the Female Referee Mentor Program brings participants together as a national cohort, encouraging peer learning and long‑term connection. A key feature of the program will be in‑person networking opportunities aligned with major football events, reinforcing refereeing’s role as a visible and valued part of the women’s football ecosystem.
Expressions of Interest are now open to female referees actively officiating within Member Federations who are committed to ongoing development and participation across the program. More information can be found here.
