Football Australia has today released its end-of-season refereeing and VAR (Video Assistant Referee) report for the 2024/25 Isuzu UTE A-League Men's season, showing clear and measurable improvements on the previous season in both decision-making accuracy and officiating performance.
The analysis reveals that 98.8% of VAR decisions were deemed correct this season - a benchmark figure assessed by Football Australia's referee coaching team. With only 48 VAR reviews (44 less than the previous season) across 1,556 on-field decisions and a low 4% intervention rate, the figures reflect a high level of confidence in on-field calls and the effectiveness of the VAR system.
Disciplinary outcomes also improved significantly compared to the 2023/24 season:
- Yellow cards per game dropped by 12.8%
- Total red cards fell by 56.8%
- Second yellow card dismissals were down 13%
- Rates of red cards for Serious Foul Play and Denial of Goal Scoring Opportunity remained stable, showing consistent application of laws in high-impact incidents.
The 2024/25 A-League season also saw a notable boost in the referee development pathway, with 16 new match officials debuting across refereeing, assistant refereeing, and VAR roles - up from just two in the previous season.
With continued focus on education, transparency, and performance, Football Australia remains committed to enhancing the standard of officiating across all levels of the game.
Quotes attributable to Football Australia Interim CEO, Heather Garriock:
"This season's data demonstrates the progress we're making in delivering officiating that is both accurate and aligned with the modern game."
"To see improved decision-making across the board, combined with fewer cards and a low VAR intervention rate, speaks volumes about the quality and consistency of our match officials."
Quotes attributable to A-Leagues Executive Chairman, the Hon Stephen Conroy:
"The improvement in officiating standards this season is a credit to the collaboration between Football Australia, our referees, and the A-Leagues clubs."
"These results reflect the hard work being done behind the scenes to build confidence in decision-making, strengthen the matchday experience, and ensure our competitions are among the best officiated in the region. We thank our match officials for their professionalism and commitment to continual improvement."
Quotes attributable to Football Australia Head of Referees, Jon Moss:
"We're seeing tangible year-on-year improvement - not just in accuracy, but in game management and the integration of new talent into the elite level.
"The data tells a clear story: fewer cards, fewer incorrect calls, and more consistency. This is a credit to the professionalism of our referees and their willingness to adapt to the tactical shifts occurring in the A-Leagues."
