What does the WPA Match Official Framework require of every referee?
Guideline- Australia
- Water Polo Australia
- Club water polo
- World Aquatics rules
- All ages
- 2025/26
- Referees
Water Polo Australia launched its Match Official Framework on 17 November 2025 to simplify qualification through minimum standards and a multi-step accreditation process. These compliance requirements apply at all levels:
- Be a registered WPA member (Gold Membership is needed to access Learning Centre content).
- Hold a Working with Children Check in your home state.
- Follow the Think. Act. Play. Guidelines.
- Complete the Sports Integrity Australia requirements: Competition Manipulation and Sports Gambling, Safeguarding Children and Young People Inductions, and Decision Making in Sport.
The framework describes six key areas: Performance, Tactical, Technical, Leadership, Communication and Team Fit. It also covers the profile and education expected at each level, how to advance, the code of behaviour and presentation expectations, the role of the Delegate, and the obligations of clubs, states and WPA.
Source: https://www.waterpoloaustralia.com.au/news/water-polo-australia-releases-match-official-framework
Added 24 Oct 2026