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Writer's pictureLaura Noble

Referee Network Event


Women Onside is excited to announce the upcoming Referee Network Event, an opportunity for women referees across Australia to connect, learn, and grow within the football officiating community. This event is a must-attend for current and aspiring referees, offering a platform for shared experiences, knowledge, and networking.


Event Details:

📅 Date: Monday, 11th November 2024

🕖 Time: 7:00pm AEDT📍 Location: Online Webinar

🆓 Cost: Free for Women Onside members

💡 Non-members: $25 (or consider becoming a Women Onside member for just $22/year to access this event and future benefits!)


What to Expect:

Join us for a one-hour session led by Allyson Flynn, who will host a panel discussion featuring some of Australia’s leading female referee experts:

  • Joanna Charaktis

  • Kelly Jones

  • Catherine Marsh


Speakers will share their insights into the challenges and rewards they’ve experienced throughout their careers. The discussion will cover everything from overcoming obstacles to the importance of mentorship, building supportive networks, and the joys of officiating in football.


This event will offer practical advice, inspire confidence, and highlight how the referee community can continue to grow by supporting one another. Whether you're just starting your journey as a referee or have years of experience, this is a fantastic opportunity to learn from those who've been there before and to connect with fellow referees across Australia.


Why Attend?

Refereeing plays a crucial role in football, and we want to ensure that women referees have access to the resources, networks, and support they need to thrive. This event is your chance to:

  • Gain valuable insights from experienced referees

  • Build connections within the referee community

  • Learn about the power of networks and mentorship in officiating

  • Get inspired by the journeys of others in the game


Cost Breakdown:

  • Women Onside Members: Free

  • Non-members: $25

    Tip: Becoming a Women Onside member for just $22/year is cheaper than the non-member ticket price and offers ongoing benefits, including free access to events like this!


How to Register:




Let’s strengthen our community of women referees and continue advocating for better representation and support in football.


Mark your calendars for 11th November 2024 and join us for an event that will uplift, inspire, and connect women in football refereeing.


Event Host and Speakers

Allyson Flynn

Allyson Flynn has had an extensive career in refereeing. She is a former international FIFA Assistant Referee, having officiated at the 2011 and 2015 Women's World Cup and the 2016 Rio Olympics, in addition to her regular appointments to ALM and ALW matches. More recently, Allyson worked as the Referee Operations Manager for the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 in Australia and New Zealand. In this role, one of her responsibilities was the planning and operations of the Referee Base Camp during the FWWC 2023.  


Catherine Marsh (she/her)

Catherine Marsh is an exercise scientist (AES, ASCA) and PhD candidate researching the teamwork and exploratory behaviour of match officials.  An active futsal and football referee, coach, and educator, she has also worked extensively with national and international sporting organisations in logistics, branding, and strategy. She is passionate about working at the intersection of sport, science, and advocacy and using her skillset to improve resources and support for referees from grassroots to elite.


Joanna Charaktis

Joanna Charaktis is a highly accomplished FIFA Assistant Referee, officiating in both the A-League Men’s and Women’s competitions. Her impressive refereeing career includes appointments at prestigious tournaments such as the AFC Women's Asian Cup India 2022, the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 in Australia and New Zealand, the AFC U23 Men’s Asian Cup Qatar 2024, and the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics. Off the field, Joanna balances her passion for football with a career as a Business Analyst at REA Group (realestate.com.au).


Kelly Jones

Kelly Jones is an experienced Australian football referee who began her officiating journey at the young age of 12. She started refereeing in the A-League Women, ALW, in 2012 and hasn't missed a single season, even after becoming a mother of three. In addition to her role in the ALW, Kelly also referees in the Men's National Premier Leagues. Known for her fair and consistent application of the laws, she has earned respect within the Australian football community. Her dedication to the sport and ability to balance family life with her professional commitments make her a prominent and well-regarded figure in Australian football.


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