Who is allowed to approach me, and what if someone abuses me?
Rule- Western Australia
- WA Football
- Junior football
- Years 3-6
- Modified competitions
- AFL Laws of the Game
- 2026
- Umpires
WA Football has zero tolerance for umpire or official abuse, verbal dissent, intimidation or disputing of decisions. Abuse means any language, behaviour or gesture intended to insult, offend, intimidate, threaten or harm.
Only these people may approach an umpire:
- the Team Manager and Team Captain, and only to clarify competition rules (not to query a decision or the free kick count), raise player safety in extreme weather or ground conditions, understand why someone was sent off, or ask whether you have concerns about the game day environment
- coaches, only to shake hands before and after the match
- League Administrators, Umpire Coaches and Umpire Escorts
No other player, official, parent or spectator may approach you before, during or after the match, including as they leave the venue.
Yellow and red cards can be issued to any player, official or spectator. A person who fails to leave when directed is reported, the match is terminated and their team forfeits. Spectator behaviour reports can also cost a team E-points (youth competitions) and lead to Code of Conduct action against the club.
Added 22 Oct 2026