Scrutineering is one of the most crucial roles that Motorsport Australia’s officials play, ensuring vehicles comply with the regulations set by Motorsport Australia in administering safe, fair and fun participation.
Vehicles, including those used for parades and demonstrations may be checked prior to going onto the track. Scrutineers have a wide range of responsibilities on maintaining safe and fair competition standards.
Scrutineers will often examine competition vehicles and competitors’ racing attire for compliance with category-specific technical regulations during an event.
They will also monitor and respond to requests for advice on matters of vehicle safety from Race Control, Stewards, Secretary of Event or Category Technical Delegates.
Scrutineers inspect and provide written reports and advice on vehicles involved in accidents, including advice on whether vehicles and racing attire is suitable to resume competition activity.
As instructed in all of their duties by the Chief Scrutineer, scrutineers will also ensure technical equipment and measures are accurate and used correctly.
As a key part of the Motorsport Australia officials’ structure, scrutineers have a broad repertoire of personal attributes. As well as having a solid understanding of rules, regulations, technical and category specific regulations, scrutineers also have good communication, good teamwork acumen, observation skills and an ability to follow instructions.
To become a scrutineer official, individuals begin with getting a Motorsport Australia General Officials licence and build experience as a General Official – the starting point and minimum requirement for every new official.
From there, an official can earn Bronze accreditation in the scrutineer discipline, allowing them to lead state-level events. A scrutineer may then progress to Silver accreditation, which qualifies them to act as Chief Scrutineer at national-level events. The final step is Gold accreditation, enabling them to serve as Chief Scrutineer at international-level events.
To begin your career as a Scrutineer, head to motorsport.org.au/officials to apply now.
