Movable Goalpost Safety

Movable goalposts are a common feature in football games across Australia—but when installed or used incorrectly, they can pose serious risks. Tragically, children and teenagers have suffered life-threatening injuries and fatalities due to unstable or improperly anchored goals.

Blunt force injuries and trauma to the head, neck, chest and limbs can occur from movable soccer goals due to:

• Instability.
• Goals becoming unanchored.
• Goals with inadequate anchoring.
• Inappropriate or ineffective installation.
• Inappropriate use, such as swinging on goalposts or crossbars.

The hazards associated with movable goalposts particularly apply to goalposts weighing 28kg or more.

So, what is a movable goalpost?

A movable goalpost is any free standing goal designed to be transported (whether in one piece or after disassembly) both on and off a sports field. These goals may be either-

• Full size goals used outdoors for senior soccer games or training;
• Smaller size goals used outdoors for junior soccer games or training, or at indoor facilities.

Before every match and training session, officials must complete safety checks using the checklist provided in the Camden Council - Movable Goalpost Safety Guidelines. Completed forms should be emailed to recreationofficers@camden.nsw.gov.au.

Let’s work together to keep our fields safe and our players protected.

For further information, please see Football NSW - Goal Post Safety Notice