Referee Signals
Signals for
General Play
 1.
Start of play: To commence each half or to recommence play after a
try is scored a tap is taken from halfway. The referee takes position about
8 metres from halfway and about 10 metres from midfield. The referee raises
their hand straight up, fingers together whilst blowing the whistle
simultaneously. (Rule 16)
 2. Five touches completed:
Once a team has held possession for 5 successive touches the referee raises
one hand directly upwards with fingers spread to indicate 5 touches have
been completed. The referee should hold this signal until the set of 6
touches is complete. (Rule 21)
 3. Six touches completed:
The referee indicates that the set of 6 touches is complete by raising one
hand showing one finger, and the other with 5 fingers spread. The referee
may choose to give a short whistle blast prior to giving this signal. (Rule
21)
  4. Half-time and Full-time:
The referee indicates the end of each half firstly by whistle and then
giving the signal. Facing halfway you will have your arms outstretched to
the sides then draw them together with your palms coming together in front
in a pointing motion towards the middle of the field.
  5.
Six more touches: There may be an incident where the touch count
should be restarted. The referee makes a fist which is motioned side to
side above the head. This waving action is only completed twice. Generally
it should not be necessary to use your whistle. (Rule 27 & 38)
  6.
Lost control of the ball: In most situations the players will know
that control of the ball has been lost. Generally it should not be
necessary to use your whistle, however where there may be some doubt a
short whistle blast should be used. The signal is made between waist and
chest height in front of the body. The hands are motioned forward miming
the spillage of the ball. (Rule 23)
 7.
Incorrect rollball: To signal is used to indicate that the ball
has not been played correctly between or under the feet. The referee mimes
the correct action. Where the rollball is not completed correctly a change
of possession occurs, with play recommencing with a rollball to the
opposition. (Rule 28)
 8.
Try Awarded: When a try has been scored, the referee positions
themselves behind the point where the ball was grounded. You should then
look across to your 'buddy' referee(s) to receive the all clear signal.
When the try is awarded with fingers together & palm down your arm is
extended towards the point where the try was scored and the whistle is
blown simultaneously.
 9.
Dummy Half Caught in Possession: The referee indicates that the
dummy half has been caught in possession by crossing their arms at chest
height in front of the body. A change of possession results with play
recommencing with a rollball. A short blast of the whistle may be required
before giving the signal. (Rule 29)
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