The organisation announced the program would continue through 2020 after it proved successful in 2019.

After identifying costs as a major barrier to potential referees, NNSWF introduced the program in collaboration with Football Federation Australia, its seven local member zones and sportswear company Umbro, who all supported the subsidised starter package for first-time referees.

NNSWF CEO David Eland was confident the program's continuation through 2020 would see more members of the football community become match officials in 2020.

"With football being Australia's number one participation-based sport, it is vital for us to have enough match officials on the park to officiate the ever-increasing fixtures," he said.

"The referee starter pack is perfect for those who want to give back to the game of football.

"There's never been a better time to come on board as a match official with this significant saving and the experience you can gain."

Each $100 'on-the-pitch' referee starter pack contains:

Those over the age of 13 can find out how to become a referee and where they can complete a level four course here.

If there is no course in your area, please send an expression of interest to referees@northernnswfootball.com.au and include your contact details and address.

NNSWF will then contact you when a course is scheduled in your area.

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