2026 Umpire Registrations now open

Becoming an umpire in the Eastern Football Netball League (EFNL) offers a range of personal, professional, and sporting benefits. 

Whether you’re a student, current or retired player, a parent or someone simply looking to stay active and involved in local footy, there are plenty of reasons to give umpiring a go.

The EFNL covers competitions from Under-8s through to Junior (Under-18 girls & boys), and then into Senior men’s and Women’s football.

We have umpiring opportunities in the following roles:

o Field Umpire: takes control of the main game (e.g., “calling the shots” for big groups of players). 

o Boundary Umpire: monitors the boundary line, determines whether the ball is in/out, performs throw-ins. 

o Goal Umpire: officiates & decides the scores in senior Saturday competitions and in finals series. 

• Umpires are appointed across both junior and senior competitions, for boys, girls, men and women. 

Here’s why people choose to umpire in the EFNL 

Being an umpire allows you to:

1. Stay Involved in the Game You Love

• Umpiring keeps you right in the middle of the action — you’re part of the game every weekend.

• It’s a great pathway for former or current players who want to remain connected to community football.

2. Earn Money While Staying Fit

• Umpiring is one of the best ways to earn money as a student or weekend worker.

• Match payments increase with experience and level — juniors, seniors, finals, etc.

• You’re paid to stay fit and active outdoors.

3. Great for Fitness & Wellbeing

• It’s an excellent way to build and maintain fitness — running, endurance, and agility.

• Umpiring provides both physical activity and social interaction, which supports overall wellbeing.

4. Learn Life Skills

• Develop communication, leadership, confidence, and decision-making under pressure.

• Umpiring teaches respect, resilience, and teamwork — skills that transfer to study, work, and life.

5. Training, Coaching & Development Pathways

• The EFNL provides structured training programs for new and experienced umpires.

A program for our Junior Umpires called Flags and Whistles, designed for young people taking up umpiring for the first time.

• You’ll have access to experienced coaches who guide you through learning the rules and improving performance.

• Opportunities exist to progress to higher levels — senior EFNL games, representative football, or even AFL pathways.

6. Be Part of a Supportive Community

• The EFNL umpiring group is welcoming and social — you’ll make new friends and feel part of a close community.

• Social events, awards nights, and recognition programs run throughout the season.

Looking to register or wanting to know more?

Registrations are now open via the following link: https://registration.officialshq.com/?fbclid=IwAR0Nm_HQ35_mUUOO0u80PZi7ge0K0lUnScPJQMtQixHo8nwvo1xWNUeb9SM