Australian golf is witnessing a significant surge in participation, with an impressive 17.6 percent of adult Australians engaging in the sport during 2022-23. This exciting news was revealed in the annual participation report, which was unveiled at the prestigious Moore Park Golf Course in Sydney.
In the past year, a remarkable 3.5 million adult Australians actively took part in golf-related activities, including visits to golf courses, driving ranges, simulators, or mini-golf facilities. Additionally, there has been a substantial 10.2 percent increase in golf club membership over the past three years, further highlighting the growing popularity of the sport.
Club membership recorded a 1.9 percent growth in 2022-23, with a total of 434,825 individuals becoming members. This rise follows previous increases of 2.7 percent in 2021-22 and an astounding 6.4 percent surge in 2020-21. Moreover, there has been a noticeable 9.3 percent increase in junior membership across clubs nationwide, as well as a commendable 12.6 percent surge in women and girls joining golf clubs.
James Sutherland, the Chief Executive of Golf Australia, expressed his delight at the continuing growth of golf’s popularity. He remarked, “Golf is undeniably one of Australia’s most popular participation sports. Its consistent growth over recent years is a clear testament to its enduring appeal. The increase in golf club membership is just the beginning, as there is a remarkable rise in off-course golf activities such as driving ranges, indoor golf, and mini-golf.”
Sutherland also acknowledged the vital role played by industry professionals in driving the sport’s growth, including PGA professionals, club and facility staff, greenskeepers, and retail employees. He emphasised their dedication to providing exceptional customer service and unforgettable golfing experiences for Australians of all ages and backgrounds.
The positive statistics released today underscore the success of the Strategy for Australian Golf 2022-2025, which aims to promote the accessibility and enjoyment of golf for all Australians. As Sutherland noted, “We are thrilled to see the fruitful outcomes of our strategic initiatives. The increasing participation and the growing perception of golf as an enjoyable and inclusive sport for all Australians are incredibly promising.”
The encouraging numbers unveiled in the report serve as a testament to the enduring appeal and widespread popularity of golf in Australia. With an increasing number of individuals – including women, girls, and juniors – embracing the sport, the future of golf in the country looks brighter than ever.