Develop as a Technical Official (TO)

Most of the technical officiating roles include both theory and practical assessments. The Swimming Australia TO training system platform is accessible through Swimming Australia - Online training for technical officials.

*For Level 1 Referee, you must also be qualified for:

• Timekeeper / Chief Timekeeper
• Call Room Supervisor (Marshal) / Check Starter
• Recorder
• Inspector of Turns
• Judge of Stroke
• Starter Level 1

For Referee Multi-Class and Open Water, you must first hold a Referee Level 1 qualification.

For Level 2, you must first hold a level 1 qualification. 

For information on how to apply for a level 3 Starter or Referee assessment, please click here. 

Once you have completed the theory, get some experience on pool deck at your club or district level. The best way to do this is by contacting the person in your club or district who organises the competitions.

You can also have a look to officiate at other club meets listed on our event calendar, simply email the relevant contact on the competition link to let them know you are available. If unsure, contact officials@vic.swimming.org.au and the team will point you in the right direction.

After you have had some practical experience, and feel confident in the role, you can request an assessment, to get your qualification for that particular officiating role.

All assessments, for positions up to and including Level 1 Starter and Level 1 Referee, must be done at an SV qualifying meet that runs for a minimum of 3 hours, (with the exception of Timekeeper & Chief Timekeeper, which can be done at any qualifying meet). Assessments can be organised by contacting your mentor, District Referee or SV for assistance. 

For Starter Level 1 and Level 2, two separate practical competent assessments from different assessors are required. Please email officials@vic.swimming.org.au to request your assessment.

For Referee Level 1 and Level 2, two separate practical competent assessments from different assessors are required, plus an exam for each level. Please email officials@vic.swimming.org.au to request your assessment.

Level 2 assessments must be conducted at an SV championship event across a heats and finals session.

For information regarding Level 3 assessments, including a request for assessment form, please click here or contact SV. 

The NOAP Assessment Criteria Overview of the positions, and list of Assessors, can be found under TO Assessor resources.

If you believe that you possess the skills to obtain or upgrade your qualifications, you can apply for a Recognition of Current Competency (RCC) based on prior learning or experience. If successful, this will speed up the time it takes for you to get your qualifications. 

Download the relevant information below to find out more, 

• Recognition of Current Competency (RCC) Procedures
• Recognition of Current Competency (RCC) application form

One of the best ways to improve your officiating skills is to work with a mentor who is an experienced TO. You may contact one in your local district or contact SV on the email below for assistance.

Swimming Victoria also holds forums and webinars to offer additional learning opportunities for all officials. These events are promoted on the SV website and emailed to all members. Please check the latest newsletters for updates.

If you would like to see a specific topic presented during the next development opportunity, or you have any questions, please email us on officials@vic.swimming,org.au

Rules and Policies are continually updated, and it is therefore important that all TOs to keep up to date with the latest information. Therefore, all TOs must re-accredit every four (4) years. This is a free and simple process, which includes:

• Completion of a log of activities, workshops, seminars, competitions etc. that contribute points towards your re-accreditation during the four-year period. The number of points required are listed in the Re-Accreditation kit below.
• Agreement to abide by the Swimming Australia behaviour Guidelines and Swimming Victoria's Values and Behaviours. 
• Maintaining a current Victorian Working with Children's Check 
• Complete the Community Officiating Essential Skills Course

 Swimming Australia's Re-Accreditation Kit.