Signals for General Play

Start of play signal. 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)

Five touches completed signal. 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)

Set of six touches completed signal 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)

Half-time and Full-time signal. Half-time and Full-time signal. 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.

Six more touches. Six more touches. 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)

Lost control signal Lost control signal 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)

Incorrect rollball signal. 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)

Try awarded signal. 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.

Dummy half caught in possession signal 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)