Umpire Code of Behaviour

In addition to the General Code of Behaviour, you must meet the following requirements in regard to your conduct during any activity held or sanctioned by a Community Cricket Peak Body, a Region or an Affiliated Club and Association and in your role as an umpire appointed by a Community Cricket Peak Body, a Region or an Affiliated Club and Association:
  • Compliment and encourage all participants.
  • Be consistent, objective and courteous when making decisions.
  • Condemn unsporting behaviour and promote respect for all opponents.
  • Emphasise the spirit of the game rather than the errors.
  • Be a good sport yourself – actions speak louder than words.
  • Keep up to date with the latest available resources for umpiring and the principles of growth and development of young people.
  • Remember, you set an example. Your behaviour and comments should be positive and supportive.
  • Place the safety and welfare of participants above all else.
  • Treat all players with respect at all times.
  • Accept responsibility for all actions taken. Exercise reasonable care to prevent injury by ensuring players play within the rules. Reasonable care consists of advising the players of illegal body movements, showing due diligence in detecting infringements and penalising rule breakers.
  • Umpires must be impartial and maintain integrity in their relationship with other umpires, players and coaches.
  • Avoid situations which may lead to a conflict of interest.
  • Value the individual in sport. Ensure the players have the opportunity for discussion with you after the match.
  • Encourage inclusivity and access to all areas of officiating. Aim for excellence based upon realistic goals and due consideration for growth and development.
  • Be a positive role model in behaviour and personal appearance by maintaining the highest standards of personal conduct and projecting a favourable image of Cricket and umpiring at all times.
  • Refrain from any form of personal abuse towards players. This includes verbal, physical and emotional abuse. Be alert to any forms of abuse directed towards the players from other sources while they are playing. (Abide by Community Cricket Member Protection By-law).
  • Refrain from any form of harassment towards players. Treat all players fairly within the context of their sporting activities, regardless of gender, race, place of origin, athletic potential, colour, sexual orientation, religion, political beliefs, socio-economic status, and other conditions. (Abide by Community Cricket Member Protection Bylaw).
  • Show concern and caution towards ill and injured players. You should enforce the blood rule and apply procedures regarding ill or injured players according to the rule book. Common sense must be applied in all cases.
  • In accordance with ACB and Cricket Victoria guidelines, modify rules and regulations to match the skill levels and needs of young people.
  • Encourage and promote rule changes which will make participation more enjoyable.
  • Give all young people a ‘fair go’ regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion.
  • Institute disciplinary procedures when necessary without fear or favour in accordance with the rules of the competition and the Spirit of Cricket.
  • Participate in ongoing training, be aware of rule changes, be a member of an Umpires Association wherever possible and promote the Spirit of Cricket.