Referees

Referee Vision and Mission

Our vision is for our referees to be the embodiment of integrity in the sport, fostering a community where the pursuit of strength is guided by knowledge, consistent adjudication, and a commitment to fairness. We aspire to take the lead during meets, demonstrating autonomy in decision-making and ensuring a level playing field for all athletes.

Becoming a Referee 

To first become a referee with the APA you need to complete an online theory test, attend an online seminar, and pass a practical exam with a referee examiner. To register your interest to sit the exam and attend the seminar please email technical.manager@powerliftingalliance.org.au  

If you have previously refereed with another federation, please see our Referee Transfer Policy, linked below, or email the Technical Manager for further help. 

Referee Ranks 

The APA Recognises the following ranks of referees. 

Local Referees

Local Referees are able to referee all local meets in Australia in any position, including that of Chief Referee. 

Both National and Local Referees are expected to referee at least twice per year in order to keep their skills sharp. 

National Referees

National Referees are able to referee all domestic meets in Australia, can certify national records, and can be recognised by their white badge, as well as tie or scarf. 

In order to be promoted to National Referee, a Local Referee needs to meet the following criteria. 

• Complete at least 8 sessions as a Local Referee

• Complete at least 1 full session as Chief Referee at a local meet

• Achieve a score of at least 90% in a written examination 

• Achieve a score of at least 85% in a practical examination as Chief Referee 

Category 2 and Category 1 IPF Referees 

These referees are our highest ranking referees and can be recognised by their blue and red ties, respectively. The expectations of these referees are set out in the IPF Technical Rules (linked below). Additionally, these referees are expected to set the standard of professional conduct for the rest of our cohort. 

Online Exams

Both theory exams are open book that can be completed by anyone for their own education. If you wish to proceed to becomeing a referee or tranferring your accreditations after completing the theory exam please contact the technical manager.

Local Referee Exam - for those wanting to become local referees

Refresher Exam - for referees transferring from a different federation

Relevant Rules, Codes, and Policy 

IPF Technical Rules

IPF Approved List 

APA RefeReferee Code of Conduct 

APA Jury Policy

APA Referee Transfer Policy

Contact Information

For questions or comments about refereeing or to direct to the APA Technical Committee, please contact the Technical Manager, technical.manager@powerliftingalliance.org.au.