Champion fair play - become a GABA Referee.
Why Referee?
Refereeing is a great way to stay involved in the game, develop confidence and leadership skills, and earn while you learn. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow your skills, we’ll support you every step of the way.
Be at the heart of every play and soak up the on-court excitement.
Stay in the
Game
Build Confidence & Leadership
Make quick calls, guide players, and grow your decision making skills.
Get paid per game as you gain experience and refine your craft.
Earn While You Learn
Getting Started
How old do I need to be?
You can start refereeing with GABA from 12 years old, after completing the Association Beginner Referee Course. No experience needed — just a love of the game and a willingness to learn.
What’s the first step?
New referees begin by attending a Beginner Referee Course, hosted by GABA in partnership with Basketball WA. Once you've completed the course, you'll be paired with a Runner (support umpire) to guide you through your first few games.
You’ll start in a green trainee shirt, and once your Mentor signs off that you’re confident and competent to referee on your own, you’ll become an official GABA umpire.
Contact us to register your interest or ask a question.
Referee Development Pathway
Trainee Referee
(Green Shirt)
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Attend a beginner course
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Umpire junior games with support
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Learn from experienced Mentors
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No payment for the first 3 games (learning phase)
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Runner gets $15/game
Beginner Referee
(Green Shirt)
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Once signed off, you’ll be paid for games
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$10/game for new solo refs
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$15/game for second year or experienced refs (up to U14s)
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$20/game for U16s and U18s
Level 1 Referee
(Black & White Striped Shirt)
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Eligible after 12 months and age 15+
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Complete Basketball WA’s Level 1 Referee Course
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Be assessed on court and approved
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Can officiate junior and senior games
Senior Game Rates:
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$60 (striped), $40 (non-striped)
Division 1
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$30 (striped), $25 (non-striped)
Other divisions
Frequently Asked Questions
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Our Referee Coordinator manages the weekly roster. Contact them via email at referee@gaba.au
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You can update your availability using Ref Assist, our online rostering tool.
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Yes! Training is provided by local mentors and instructors. Courses are held in Geraldton and Perth when available.
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Absolutely — with opportunities to referee at state championships and complete formal accreditations.
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Yes. New referees are supported on court by Runners and guided by senior referees.
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Rules are available via the Basketball WA website: basketballwa.asn.au/rules-of-basketball
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Yes! Ref Assist lets you choose when you’re available to umpire.
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No — you’ll be umpiring games across all clubs in the GABA competition.
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Talk to your Mentor, a Games Controller, the Administrator, or the Referee Coordinator.
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Start by attending a Beginner Umpiring Course. Register your interest by emailing referee@gaba.au
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We use Ref Assist to manage rosters and payments. You’ll need to register with the platform. It works on phones and computers.
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Yes — you can log in from a computer or a parent’s phone. It’s best to have your own phone so you can enter scores and votes after games.
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We use a WhatsApp Group for quick updates and communication.
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Yes! Many players say umpiring helps them understand the game more deeply and improve their own skills.
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Yes, if you’re 18 or older. The cost is $11 and is available from your local post office.
More info workingwithchildren.wa.gov.au
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GABA aims to pay referees weekly via our automated system. Please ensure your bank details are entered in Ref Assist
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Yes — all referees in uniform receive 20% off at the canteen!
Join the team!
Ready to blow the whistle on your ref journey?
Email us to register your interest or find out more.
