Get Into Archery
Officiating & Judging
What does an official do?
An Archery Australia official oversees competitions to make sure they run fairly, safely, and according to the Archery Australia rules. They manage the shooting line, organize the order of archers, and ensure everyone shoots at the correct time. Most importantly, they maintain safety, stopping shooting if conditions or behaviour are unsafe, and ensure a smooth, fair, and enjoyable competition for all participants.
To be a great official, you need to be calm under pressure, considered and measured in your decisions, and methodical in your approach. At high-intensity moments, officials bring steadiness and clarity, qualities that help athletes perform at their best and keep the competition running with integrity.
Why should I become an archery judge or official, what are the benefits?
Becoming an official is a great way to be at the heart of the action. Officials are called upon to support club, state, and national events, and even international competitions. It’s a chance to contribute to the sport in a meaningful way, build friendships within the archery community, and develop skills like leadership, decision-making, and communication. You’ll also gain the satisfaction of knowing competitions run safely and fairly because of your contribution.
What the process of becoming an archery official?
The journey starts at your local club, where you can express interest and learn the basics of officiating. Archery Australia provides a structured pathway of training and accreditation, beginning with entry-level judging courses and progressing through state, national, and international levels. With each step, you’ll gain more knowledge and experience, moving from assisting at local events to judging at the biggest tournaments. Support and mentoring are provided along the way, so you can grow confidently into the role.