Our HISTORY

The level of commitment expected of match officials increased significantly after the NRL was formed in 1998. It required foregoing other attractive career choices, along with huge personal sacrifice. Additionally, the management culture at the time was not respectful to match officials.

The Professional Rugby League Match Officials Inc (PRLMO) is the culmination of discernment by NRL match officials over the years which followed. They seek to have their own, dedicated representation. This is consistent with what AFL umpires and other sports.

Hence in 2014 the PRLMO was formed – a body created by and for match officials, to enable them to think, speak and act collectively, and thereby support their welfare. A small group of volunteers put many hours into this initiative, knowing that it was a major milestone in the history of the Game.

The PRLMO’s constitution ensures that it will always remain under the direct control of the active NRL match officials. It also raises the profile of match officials, who are a primary stakeholder in the game of Rugby League, along with players, clubs, sponsors and fans.

The PRLMO is dedicated to ensuring that match officials are treated with respect across our Game, and that the importance of their role within the Game receives the appreciation it deserves.

The overwhelming majority of NRL match officials chose to join the PRLMO. That very high level of membership has continued ever since.

The PRLMO has been able to negotiate an Enterprise Agreement with the NRL. The current version expires in 2026, and a new one will be negotiated for 2027-2030.

What We've Achieved