Referee
Champion fair play - become a GABA referee.
Why referee?
Stay in the game
Refereeing is a great way to stay involved, build confidence and leadership, and earn while you learn. We’ll support you every step of the way.
Stay in the game
Be at the heart of every play.
Confidence & leadership
Make quick calls and grow your decision making.
Earn while you learn
Get paid per game as you gain experience.
Getting started
From age 12 – no experience needed
You can start refereeing with GABA from 12 years old after completing the Association Beginner Referee Course, run by GABA with Basketball WA.
After the course you'll be paired with a Runner (support umpire) for your first games. You'll start in a green trainee shirt, and once your Mentor signs you off as confident and competent, you'll become an official GABA umpire.
Contact us for more infoYour pathway
Referee development pathway
Trainee Referee
Green shirt
- Attend a beginner course
- Umpire junior games with support
- Learn from experienced Mentors
Beginner Referee
Green shirt
- Paid once signed off
- $12.50/game for U10s
- $17.50/game for U12s and U14s
- $22.50/game for U16s and U18s
Level 1 Referee
Black & white striped shirt
- Eligible after 12 months and age 15+
- Complete BWA's Level 1 Referee Course
- Assessed on court and approved
- Officiate junior and senior games
- Senior rates: $63 W1/M1, $30 W2/M2, $27.50 other divisions
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
+Who creates the ref roster?
Our Referee Coordinator manages the weekly roster. Email referee@gaba.au.
+What if I can’t make it one week?
Update your availability in Ref Assist, our online rostering tool.
+Will I get training?
Yes! Local mentors and instructors provide training, with courses in Geraldton and Perth when available.
+Can I develop my referee career?
Absolutely — with opportunities to referee at state championships and complete formal accreditations.
+Will I have a mentor?
Yes. New referees are supported on court by Runners and guided by senior referees.
+Where can I learn the rules?
On the Basketball WA website: basketballwa.asn.au/rules-of-basketball.
+I’m only available certain days — is that okay?
Yes! Ref Assist lets you choose when you’re available.
+Will I only umpire my own club’s games?
No — you’ll umpire games across all clubs in the GABA competition.
+Who can I go to with questions?
Your Mentor, a Games Controller, the Administrator or the Referee Coordinator.
+What software do I need?
We use Ref Assist for rosters and payments. It works on phones and computers — a computer or parent's phone is fine too.
+How do refs stay in touch?
We use a WhatsApp group for quick updates.
+Will refereeing help me as a player?
Yes! Many players say umpiring helps them understand the game more deeply.
+Do I need a Working With Children Check?
Yes, if you’re 18 or older. It costs $11 from your local post office. More info at workingwithchildren.wa.gov.au.
+When will I get paid?
GABA aims to pay referees weekly. Make sure your bank details are entered in Ref Assist.
Ready to blow the whistle?
Start with a Beginner Umpiring Course – register your interest and we’ll be in touch.
Register your interest