Very aware of these issues': Golf Australia reveals plan to combat re-zoning of public courses

"There are a whole lot of different factors in society right now around housing or environmental issues or urban planning issues that can compromise existing golf courses that have been there for a hundred years or more. We are very aware of these issues, and we are there to help and support and to assist clubs and facilities in directional issues and advice that can help them to put up the best defence."

"The sport reported annual growth in adult participation of 10% over the past five years, sustaining a boom that began during the Covid pandemic. The number of the sport's off-course venues such as driving ranges and simulator arcades is growing annually at almost 17%."

Golf Australia released a five-year strategy to protect public golf courses from re-zoning and conversion to other uses. Despite strong adult participation growth of 10% annually over five years, traditional courses face threats from housing, environmental, and urban planning pressures. Several high-profile courses have been downsized or converted, including Moore Park in Sydney, Elsternwick in Melbourne, and Rosny Park in Hobart. Off-course venues such as driving ranges and simulator arcades are growing at nearly 17% annually. Golf Australia's chief executive emphasizes the organization's commitment to supporting clubs in defending their facilities. Some courses have successfully resisted conversion through public investment and strategic initiatives.

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