Modernise eligibility requirements & align with national baseline for dog sport judges
Modernise eligibility requirements & align with national baseline for dog sport judges
The issue
Living in the vibrant community of New South Wales, I've witnessed firsthand the passion and dedication of our dog sports enthusiasts. Obedience and Rally sports play a pivotal role in keeping our canine companions active, disciplined, and socially involved. However, in recent times, there has been a noticeable decline in the availability of qualified judges to oversee these events. This shortage affects not only the competitiveness of these sports but also the fun and camaraderie they bring to participants and spectators alike.
The current eligibility requirements set by Dogs NSW for becoming an Obedience and Rally Judge have not evolved in pace with the changing dynamics of these sports and the wider community. Many experienced competitors, instructors, and dedicated club volunteers, who possess the necessary skills and a wealth of experience, find themselves unable to contribute as judges due to outdated qualification criteria.
It's time for change. We propose a thorough review and modernisation of the eligibility criteria. Such a review should involve key stakeholders, including current judges, competitors, and club representatives. A focus on practical experience, teaching ability, and commitment to dog sports should be integral to the revised requirements.
Statistics show a steady decline in the number of available judges, placing pressure on the existing pool and leading to burnout. By modernising the criteria, Dogs NSW can attract a new generation of judges who are passionate and ready to give back to the sports they love.
I urge Dogs NSW to act swiftly and ensure the long-term sustainability of dog sports in New South Wales. A modernised, inclusive approach will not only enrich the judging panel but also encourage greater participation across all levels of Obedience and Rally sports.
Sign this petition to support the call for modernisation. Let's work together to safeguard the future of our cherished dog sports in New South Wales. To clarify some valid questions
To become a novice rally judge in nsw you must be masters level, other states only require novice title as entry level. Obedience you only need ccd title as entry level. NSW is far stricter than any other state. NSW also charges upwards of 40% more for sporting judges licence than any other state, licence fees should reflect that judges are voluntary
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The issue
Living in the vibrant community of New South Wales, I've witnessed firsthand the passion and dedication of our dog sports enthusiasts. Obedience and Rally sports play a pivotal role in keeping our canine companions active, disciplined, and socially involved. However, in recent times, there has been a noticeable decline in the availability of qualified judges to oversee these events. This shortage affects not only the competitiveness of these sports but also the fun and camaraderie they bring to participants and spectators alike.
The current eligibility requirements set by Dogs NSW for becoming an Obedience and Rally Judge have not evolved in pace with the changing dynamics of these sports and the wider community. Many experienced competitors, instructors, and dedicated club volunteers, who possess the necessary skills and a wealth of experience, find themselves unable to contribute as judges due to outdated qualification criteria.
It's time for change. We propose a thorough review and modernisation of the eligibility criteria. Such a review should involve key stakeholders, including current judges, competitors, and club representatives. A focus on practical experience, teaching ability, and commitment to dog sports should be integral to the revised requirements.
Statistics show a steady decline in the number of available judges, placing pressure on the existing pool and leading to burnout. By modernising the criteria, Dogs NSW can attract a new generation of judges who are passionate and ready to give back to the sports they love.
I urge Dogs NSW to act swiftly and ensure the long-term sustainability of dog sports in New South Wales. A modernised, inclusive approach will not only enrich the judging panel but also encourage greater participation across all levels of Obedience and Rally sports.
Sign this petition to support the call for modernisation. Let's work together to safeguard the future of our cherished dog sports in New South Wales. To clarify some valid questions
To become a novice rally judge in nsw you must be masters level, other states only require novice title as entry level. Obedience you only need ccd title as entry level. NSW is far stricter than any other state. NSW also charges upwards of 40% more for sporting judges licence than any other state, licence fees should reflect that judges are voluntary
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Petition created on 17 July 2026