OFFICIATING OPPORTUNITIES
Your lifesaving journey can begin from 13 years old, with entry-level pathways available both in and out of the water. Build practical skills, confidence and experience as you step into patrol for the first time and open the door to a wide range of lifesaving opportunities.
To be eligible to patrol, you need to join a club and complete at least one of the following options:
Core Official
What is it?
Core Officials support entry-level and junior participants in recreational and competitive club surf sports. You'll learn the essential elements of officiating across beach, board and swim disciplines and may officiate at any carnivals and competitions, including State Championships, for age groups up to and including Under 14.
Where can it lead?
This experience can support progression into Technical and Senior officiating roles.
What are the requirements?
Minimum 16 years old
Have a current Working with Children Check
Will I need to get wet?
Occasionally
This could suit you if you are:
Approachable and friendly
Organised
Good at building and maintaining rapport with coaches, other officials and athletes
Able to work in a team environment
Technical Official
What is it?
Technical Officials perform specific roles at club, branch and state surf sports competitions across Junior, Senior and Masters carnivals, as well as Pool Rescue, Surf Boats, IRB and Lifesaving. You may volunteer as a marshal, judge, starter or recorder while building experience in the national officiating pathway.
Where can it lead?
Technical Official accreditation is the pathway to Senior Official roles.
What are the requirements?
Minimum 16 years old
Hold a current Working with Children Check
Will I need to get wet?
Occasionally
This could suit you if you are:
xxx
Senior Official
What is it?
Senior Officials take on advanced officiating roles at high-level state and national surf sports competitions. You may serve as a Chief Judge, Referee, Area Referee, Sectional Referee or Course Supervisor, while also mentoring Core and Technical Officials and delivering training workshops in your designated officiating area.
Where can it lead?
xx
What are the requirements?
Minimum 16 years old
Have a current Working with Children Check
Current Technical Official Accreditation
Will I need to get wet?
Occasionally
This could suit you if you are:
xx
Ready to start your journey?
Find a club
Click here to find a club near you!
Contact us
If you have any further inquiries, please feel free to reach out to us via slssa.reception@surflifesavingsa.com.au or by calling 8354 6900 during office hours.