Australian match officials selected for Rugby League World Cup 2026

Five Australian Wheelchair Rugby League match officials have been recognised on the international stage, earning selection to officiate at the Rugby League World Cup 2026 in Wollongong. 

The Australians are among a squad of 12 officials from five countries appointed to the tournament, which runs from 30 October to 13 November, showcasing Australia’s officiating talent and the strength of its developing match official pathways. 

The Australian match officials selected are: 

• Steve Hewson – NSW 

• Tim Robinson – NSW 

• Anthony Bishop – QLD 

• Luke Anderson – QLD 

• Robert Burgin – QLD 

The Australian contingent brings a mix of international experience and emerging talent, with several officials having previously officiated at major international tournaments. 

Tim Robinson was Lead Referee for the 2017 Rugby League World Cup Final, while Steve Hewson has an extensive history with the Australian Wheelaroos, having coached the national team at the 2013 and 2017 World Cups before officiating at the 2021 tournament. 

Hewson and Anthony Bishop were also appointed as Defensive Referees during the 2025 Ashes series between England and Australia. 

Their selection reflects the commitment, professionalism and technical expertise required to officiate Wheelchair Rugby League at the highest level. 

It also highlights the ongoing investment in match official development, with NRL Wheelchair working alongside the National Rugby League (NRL) to strengthen officiating education and accreditation pathways across Australia. 

This collaboration has supported the development of a dedicated Wheelchair Rugby League Match Officials Course, combining online learning with practical training to equip referees with the knowledge, skills and confidence required to officiate the wheelchair format of the game. 

NRL Wheelchair CEO Anna Fitzgerald congratulated the officials on their selection and acknowledged the importance of strengthening officiating pathways. 

“Selection to officiate at a Rugby League World Cup is an outstanding achievement and a reflection of the dedication, professionalism and commitment these officials bring to the game. 

“Match officials play a critical role in the success of our sport, and we’re incredibly proud to see five Australian referees recognised on the international stage. 

“With experienced international officials alongside those continuing to develop their careers, this selection highlights both the depth of talent and the opportunities available within our game. 

“Our collaboration with the NRL to develop dedicated education and accreditation opportunities has been an important step in strengthening officiating standards and building capability across Australia. 

“To see five Australian officials selected for a World Cup on home soil reinforces the importance of investing in these pathways and demonstrates the opportunities available to referees within Wheelchair Rugby League. 

“We congratulate each of the selected officials and hope their achievements inspire more people to get involved in officiating our game.” 

The Rugby League World Cup 2026 will bring together the world’s leading Wheelchair Rugby League nations at WIN Entertainment Centre in Wollongong, providing an international stage for Australia’s players and match officials. 

For more information about Wheelchair Rugby League and officiating opportunities, visit nrlwheelchair.com.au.