Category: News

Golf Australia does not deny ACCC submission allegation

Golf Australia does not deny ACCC submission allegation

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Golf Australia (GA) has issued a statement in which it does not deny nor refute the allegations made in an ACCC submission for breaches of Australia competition law.

After Golf Industry Central (GIC) published SGA’s Press Release “Social Golf Australia makes Submission to ACCC against Golf Australia” on March 13, Golf Australia contacted GIC and supplied a “Statement attributable to Golf Australia CEO James Sutherland” which Golf Industry Central published here.

This statement from GA is a direct response to the allegations of anti-competitive conduct made by Social Golf Australia (SGA) in a submission to the ACCC in early March. The ACCC submission by SGA alleges that GA joined an existing market and then used its market power to gain a competitive advantage which is a breach of Australian Competition Law.

Undisputed Facts at the Centre of the Allegation

The market joined was the Virtual Golf Club market which has dozens of competitors that have been operating for decades in a market that GA owns, controls, regulates and sets the wholesale prices for. GA has entered this market with a product offering (The Golf Australia Club) that is virtually identical to numerous existing competitors in that market.

The allegation of a breach of Australian competition law stems from GA opening scoring submission systems via the GA App that are available to golfers who join The GA Club, but GA has withheld access to those scoring systems from its competitors in the virtual club market. In this way GA is using its market power to leverage an advantage over the competition.

While positioned as a response, the GA statement does not directly challenge the core facts outlined in SGA’s submission. The GA statement does not deny nor refute:

  • That GA has entered the virtual club market.
  • That GA has allowed members of The Golf Australia Club to use the GA App to submit Conforming Social Scores (CSS).
  • That the other operators in the Virtual Club market cannot access the CSS submission systems controlled by GA.

These three facts form the foundation of the allegation of anti-competitive behaviour in the submission to the ACCC: that GA is leveraging control of essential infrastructure to advantage its own product in a market where it also competes.

A Question of Conduct, Not Semantics

What GA does is make a case based on semantics. GA argues that it is not ‘competing’ in the market, but that it is ‘complementing’ the market. This implies the argument that if they are not competing, then they cannot be guilty of anti-competitive behaviour.

“GA seems to be suggesting that if we redefine what competing means, then they are not breaking Australian competition law. This argument lacks substance, because if we reject their premise that they are not competing, then their entire case comes apart,” states Matthew Pitt, Managing Director of Social Golf Australia.

“There is an active market that has been operating for decades with numerous businesses competing for a share of the market. If a new player joins the competition, by definition they are competing,” Pitt adds.

Structural Conflict of Interest

GA’s case also implies that it holds a unique position as the not-for-profit custodian of the handicapping system which means they are different for the other competitors, so they are not competing, but complementing the market.

“It is correct that GA are different for the rest of the market. They own, control, regulate and set the wholesale pricing for affiliation fees in this market. Clearly this is a significant conflict of interest. It is undeniable that GA are very different from all the other competitors in that they exercise complete control over that market,” says Pitt.

“The inference GA seems to be making is that because they control the market, if they enter the market, then they are ‘complementing’ it and not ‘competing’ in it. This is not a compelling argument and any lawyer going before the ACCC or an Australian Court would have significant challenges maintaining this position,” says Pitt.

GA also makes claims in the statement about the value it brings to the market it has joined. However, GA is simply replicating what other operators (that are GA’s own stakeholders) have developed as initiatives in the market over decades. GA brings nothing new nor original to this market except that CSS scores are now possible via the GA App – but only to GA’s members.

Absence of Justification for Withholding Access

What is most damning about this situation is that the peak body of golf in Australia has been alleged to have broken the rules to try to win a competition and they don’t deny the facts of the matter. In some respects, what is most revealing about GA’s position is what they don’t say. GA is only arguing that they are not guilty of breaking Australian competition law, which is setting a low bar as it is. But there is another glaring omission from GA statement.

“GA does not make an argument for WHY they are withholding scoring systems from the clubs they are now competing with. If GA had a good reason for this policy, they could offer that. And yet they do not. The silence on this point is deafening. It is a significant decision that GA says was made by the GA Board and it has drawn an allegation of anti-competitive conduct and there is no reason nor explanation given for this policy,” says Pitt.

“GA do not deny that they are withholding scoring systems from their competitors, nor offer any argument for why that system is being withheld. In the absence of any alternative reasoning from GA, then we are left with one logically compelling explanation – GA is using its market power to get an advantage in a market it is competing in,” Pitt says.

Implications for the Game

Australian golfers have a right to demand more from GA. Unlike other major sports like the AFL, which is funded from the top down thanks to significant TV rights, golf is funded from the grassroots up. The affiliation fees from Australian golfers using the handicap system are the biggest single source of funding to GA.

There is no more damning accusation in golf than a competitor being alleged to have broken the rules to try to get an advantage over their fellow golfers. And yet GA has put itself in a position where this allegation is made of their conduct, and their response does not deny the allegation.

“As the peak governing body, GA plays a critical role not only in administering the game, but in upholding its integrity, fairness, and trust. The current situation risks undermining that trust. This matter highlights the importance of governance, transparency, and whether the structures underpinning the game operate equitably for all participants,” Pitt says.

“Our view is that GA has a responsibility to uphold the rules, values, spirit, etiquette and culture of the game of golf. We should and we do expect more from our national governing body than what we are seeing now. GA has the power and the opportunity to repair the current situation. Our hope is they also have the will, and that they take positive action before any more damage is done to the reputation of our game,” concluded Pitt.

Golf Australia named in ACCC Submission by Social Golf Australia

Golf Australia named in ACCC Submission by SGA for alleged anti-competitive conduct

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Social Golf Australia (SGA) made a submission on Thursday March 5 to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) alleging that Golf Australia (GA) has engaged in anti-competitive conduct. The claim argues that when GA entered the golf handicap market with The Golf Australia Club (The GA Club) on December 1 2025 to compete against existing golf clubs as a handicap provider, that GA used its significant market power to leverage an unfair advantage over its competition.

GA allegedly did this by promoting the use of Conforming Social Score (CSS) submissions via the new GA App as a feature of The GA Club, whilst withholding that same scoring systems from its competitors in the market. The option was disabled in the back-end settings of GA Connect for golf clubs to choose to allow their members to submit CSS via the GA App. CSS are non-competition scores for handicapping and they have been rapidly increasing as a score submission method over the last decade.

BACKGROUND

As the national governing body of Australian golf, GA owns, controls and oversees the management of the country’s golf handicaps (an indexed number that allows golfers to compete on a level playing field). Golf Handicaps have traditionally been sold to golfers directly by golf clubs, or included in a membership package, with a portion of the club membership fee paid to the governing bodies in the form of an affiliation fee.

SGA is a small family business in the golf industry offering golf events and official golf handicaps that has worked closely with Golf Australia (GA) for two decades. GA and SGA collaborated to plan the development of a virtual golf club in 2006 and a close and mutually beneficial working relationship between the two organisations had been sustained for a long time.

Established with a commitment to helping golfers, the small virtual club founded in their home office by Sally and Matthew Pitt is now Australia’s largest golf club with over 12,500 active members. SGA has issued over 32,000 GOLF Link and Golf ID numbers, delivered over 11,000 new members to clubs and paid more than $3 million dollars in handicap affiliation fees over 20 years.

GA IS NOW COMPETING WITH ITS OWN STAKEHOLDERS

The stunning allegation is that GA has breached Australian competition law by misusing its significant market power in a way that could affect nearly half a million Australian golfers. However, GA joining the existing handicap market and competing with its own stakeholder clubs does raises some serious questions for the game of golf, but that is not the issue before the ACCC.

The type of product, value proposition and inclusions GA offers in the GA Club are virtually identical to several operators already in the market, including SGA. By controlling the CSS submissions via the GA App and allowing The GA Club members to use this system and withholding from competitors, it is alleged that GA used its significant market power to gain an advantage over its competition.

However, this extends beyond the other Virtual Clubs that GA has made its direct competitors. The 2024/25 GA Participation Report listed 477,220 people who are members of 1282 golf clubs and who pay affiliation fees to GA to access an official handicap. When the GA Club was launched, all of them were denied the option to use a scoring functionality through the GA App – the same scoring function that GA promotes as a key selling feature of The GA Club.

GOLF AUSTRALIA CREATING CONFUSION IN THE MARKET

According to Matthw Pitt, Managing Director of Social Golf Australia, the current environment is placing an administrative burden on golfers and creating confusion about how, when and where social and non-competition scores can be submitted for handicapping purposes, particularly for golfers who do not belong to a traditional affiliated club.

“Golfers just want a fair, reliable and transparent process for maintaining their handicap,” said Pitt. “For many golfers, their handicap is the gateway to participation, confidence, improvement, and connection. If the score submission pathways are unclear, inconsistent or withheld, then it undermines trust in the system and creates frustration across the national golfing community.”

SGA said it has spent recent months supporting members through a heightened volume of enquiries, including issues relating to account access, app registration, score submission visibility, and the ability for golfers to record rounds played in social contexts that still meet the Rules of Handicapping.

“SGA’s role has always been to help golfers access the system in a compliant way and to support the integrity of handicapping,” Mr Pitt said. “We are urging Golf Australia to work constructively with the broader golf ecosystem, including alternative club models and technology providers, so that golfers are not caught in the middle of market decisions or platform transitions.”

GA REFUSES MULTIPLE OPPORTUNITIES TO AVOID ACCC FILING

Unfortunately, the cooperative and positive relationship enjoyed for such a long time between GA and SGA has been deescalated by GA ever since they announced their intention to replicate the virtual golf club model and join as a competitor in the golf handicap market.

SGA has tried for months to have a constructive dialogue with GA on this issue with the aim of resolving it for the benefit of the broader golfing community. However, GA senior management last made contact with SGA in late November – days before the launch of the GA Club on December 1.

Since the time GA made themselves a competitor with SGA, they have acted only as a competitor and abrogated their responsibilities as the peak governing body with a responsibility to foster collegial relationships with stakeholders.

After months of trying to discuss the matter with GA (including warning their actions may contravene Australian competition law) and being continually rebutted, SGA formally raised its concerns in a submission to the ACCC on March 5, 2026.

GOLF’S FOUNDATIONAL VALUES OF HONESTY, INTEGRITY & SELF-REGULATION

SGA’s reluctance to take this action is borne out in the legal correspondence between the GA’s and SGA’s lawyers. Included in the documents is SGA’s stated position that a submission to the ACCC was not a desired outcome for the game of golf. However, it is SGA’s view that not holding GA to account for allegations of anti-competitive behaviour would be even worse for the game in the long term.

“Whatever the commercial or administrative settings, the guiding principle should be what best serves golfers and protects the integrity of the game. Maybe that is why we have received so much support from so many in the industry.”

“Golf’s reputation has been built on honesty, integrity, self-regulation, character and consideration for others.” Mr Pitt said. “Handicapping sits at the heart of that. But perhaps the moral dimension is why this story has resonated. Golfers are expected to call penalties on themselves and have a responsibility to protect the integrity of the game and the competition. In golf, sportsmanship and fair play is paramount and part of the fabric of the game. We believe that how we compete on the golf course should also be reflected in how we compete in the market.”

A DAVID V GOLIATH BATTLE – THE PRECEDENT GOLFERS DON’T WANT

It is not unreasonable to argue that a governing body of golf should be held to an even higher standard. For some in the industry, this confrontation between SGA and GA is the “little guy” standing up for those values - and for a fair marketplace - against a powerful organisation that appears prepared to change the rules of the game to suit its own interests at the expense of all others in the competition. That is not how golf has operated in the past and certainly not what golf purists want to see golf evolve into.

SGA maintains its focus remains on practical solutions, including clear guidance for golfers, consistent access to score submission functionality, and transparent communication to the market when systems change.

SGA will continue to advocate for outcomes that prioritise golfers, competition integrity, and industry-wide fairness. With this on mind, SGA is casting its complaint as an industry-wide issue, not a single-company grievance: if the national custodian can leverage control of the handicap system to favour its own commercial interests, it sets a precedent that could reshape the sport’s economy and undermine confidence in handicap integrity and the governing body.

CARETAKER OR STEAMROLLER?

The ACCC will determine what, if any, action is warranted. But for many golfers and clubs, the bigger question will outlast the legal process: is Golf Australia still acting primarily as a caretaker of the game, or has it drifted into behaving like a commercial operator prepared to trade away trust and integrity in pursuit of money and power?

SGA has consistently reiterated that it remains open to constructive dialogue with Golf Australia, and it encouraged golfers experiencing issues to contact SGA for support and to ensure their account settings and documentation are in order.

Further updates will be shared directly with SGA members as additional information becomes available.

Media enquiries
Matthew Pitt, Managing Director
Social Golf Australia
Email: matt@sgatour.com.au
Phone: 0425 742 501
Website: www.socialgolfaustralia.com.au

About Social Golf Australia
Social Golf Australia (SGA) is Australia’s largest golf club, providing 100s of golf events and compliant handicapping access and member support for golfers around Australia who wish to hold an official affiliated golf handicap.

 

Team South edges North by one point in epic 2026 Trans-Murray Matchplay Battle

Team South victorious in epic 2026 Trans-Murray Matchplay Battle

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It was an epic week of golf for the 2026 Trans-Murray Matchplay, as 68 golfers from both sides of the Murray River returned to Canberra to represent their region, and battle for supremacy in this annual Teams Matchplay event. This was the 13th running of the annual Trans-Murray Matchplay, and Team South was hungry to bring the "Murray" trophy back home, having lost him in 2025.

As always with this event, there was some incredible competition, great sportsmanship, and some truly awesome camaraderie throughout the week.

It was also a tense, epic back-and forth battle!

Day 1

The First day's action (Pairs/Ambrose) at the magnificent Royal Canberra GC, was a friendly yet fierce start to the event. Played under hot conditions (the mercury hit 36 degrees at one point), the players battled hard, but still managed to have great fun. The course was in great condition, with the firm and tricky greens providing a challenge to all players.

After the scores were tallied after Day 1, Team North jumped out to a commanding 12 to 5 lead.
Screenshot 2026-02-20 at 14-43-25 2026 TMMP Canberra Event Tournament Results

Day 2

Day 2 of the 2025 Trans-Murray Matchplay saw a heap of action at the magnificent Gold Creek, with the lead see-sawing all day. On this day, however it was Team South dominating the pairings.  In the Alternate-shot pairs format of the day, Team South pulled off the largest-ever Day 2 comeback, taking 12 matches to North's 5.

The 2026 TMMP was now All square, with only 1 round to go. It all came down to the all-important Singles matches!

Screenshot 2026-02-20 at 14-47-18 2026 TMMP Canberra Event Tournament Results

Day 3

There was excitement in the air for the all-important Singles matches on Day 3, at the picturesque Gungahlin Lakes. The scoring was tight, and both teams were feeling the pressure.  Both teams aimed to take an early lead, as they knew that EVERY POINT MATTERED.

Following the round, the points were tallied as the players enjoyed drinks, food, laughter and stories of made (and missed) putts from the week.

When the points were finalised, the difference was just ONE POINT! Team South narrowly edged North, 17.5 to 16.5!

As a result, Team South were the 2026 victors, capturing "Murray" with a 34.5 to 33.5 Victory.

Screenshot 2026-02-20 at 14-51-39 2026 TMMP Canberra Event Tournament Results

Congratulations to Team South!!

Final points:

Team D1 D2 D3 Total Points
North 12 5 16.5 33.5
South 5 12 17.5 34.5

Special Thanks

We would like to thank all the competitors (and their spouses/partners/plus-ones) for an incredible week at the 2026 Trans-Murray Matchplay. The success of these events is mostly due to the quality of the participants, and we believe that our golfers are of the highest quality anywhere!

Thanks to our host courses Royal Canberra Golf Club , Gold Creek Country Club and Gungahlin Lakes Club for sharing your wonderful courses. And thanks to our sponsors Srixon Australia & New Zealand, MGI Golf, Garmin Australia, Heathcote Winery and Card.Gift .

Photo Galleries: 2026 Trans-Murray Matchplay

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Photo Gallery - Day 1. Royal Canberra Golf Club

Photo Gallery - Day 2 Gold Creek.

Photo Gallery - Day 3. Gungahlin Lakes GC

How Golf Australia CONNECT will affect Australian golfers and golf handicaps

How Golf Australia CONNECT will affect all Australian Golfers and their Handicaps

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Updated: Oct 16, 2025

Handicap Update – CSS Scorecard entry

A quick update on entering Conforming Social Scores (CSS) from non-competition rounds.

This message is most relevant for golfers who maintain their handicap through The SGA Golf Club.

Please note that Golf Australia’s roll-out of their new app is not yet complete – as a result, some of their mobile functionality, while visible, is NOT operational.

  • Re: entry of CSS: Golf Australia had originally communicated that their App would be able to accept CSS by Oct 10.
  • Golf Australia have now pushed that date back by at least another 3-4 weeks (maybe longer)
  • Golf Australia have kept Mobile App Score Entry deactivated until they finalise the system rollout.

Our apologies for any inconvenience, but we have no control over this.

To help our SGA GC Members while Golf Australia sorts this out, we have temporarily reactivated our CSS Scorecard Entry system on our website:

  • We have streamlined the process to make submission quicker.
  • NOTE: As per Golf Australia’s current requirements:
    • Pre-nomination is NOT required at this point.
    • A marker’s name or details are NOT required at this point.
    • Slope, Scratch ratings (etc) are no longer needed – just the tee colour.

PLEASE NOTE: We expect a flood of scorecards to come in. As we need to enter these manually, it may take slightly longer than usual. We will be working hard to get these scores entered for you, but we appreciate your patience while we power through all of the cards. As soon as Golf Australia opens up their app for scoring, we will inform you through our comms channels. Sincere thanks for your patience.

Updated October 6, 2025:

We've received hundreds of enquiries from golfers about activating their new Golf ID (formerly Golf Link number) via the new Golf Australia CONNECT system.

If you haven't done so already, here is the process activate your new Golf ID:

1. Go to the Golf.com.au Setup/registration page here: https://golf.com.au/sign-up/

2. In the Box (see image below), enter your (now former) Golf Link number.

3. If an email address in the GA system is linked to your Golf Link Number, then you will receive an email from GA with a 6-digit activation code. (Check SPAM and/or Junk). Enter that code onto the setup page, and your Golf Link number will become your new Golf ID.

4. If there is NO email address in the GA system linked to your Golf Link Number, then please email us at handicap@sgagolfclub.com.au, telling us your Golf Link Number, name, and preferred email address. We will then update the system, and you can then proceed with the activation code process above.

NOTE RE CARDS AND THE ENTERING OF SCORES

Also, the Golf Australia CONNECT system is still in the Roll-out phase, and therefore we are unable to enter any handicap scores or CSS.

We will notify you once the System has completed the Roll-out, and will offer further information on score entry and Social Cards.

NOTE: If you need help with Golf Australia Connect, The Help Line for Golf Australia is (03) 7037 0400. 

Updated Sept 22, 2025

GA CONNECT is Coming – What You Need to Know 

Golf Australia (GA – the governing body of Australian amateur golf) is introducing the new Golf Australia CONNECT (GA CONNECT) platform on Thursday 2nd October for all Australian golfers and golf clubs. GA CONNECT replaces the current GOLF Link system. 

This new platform will provide enhanced technology services to more than 1,900 golf clubs and venues (which includes Social Golf Australia), and Australia’s 450,000-plus golf club members. 

As Australia's largest golf handicap provider, Social Golf Australia is working closely with Golf Australia throughout the process. Therefore, this will help minimise any impacts to our members.

Here’s what you need to know… 

KEY CHANGES TO HANDICAPPING SYSTEM

For golfers, there will be two key changes coming from October 2.

Golf Australia are introducing a new Official Golf Australia Official App, which replaces the existing GA Handicap App. The new app will retain the existing handicap lookup feature. The new mobile app will be available via either the Apple App or Google Play stores. 

Secondly, there will be a new portal to access your GA Handicap. This will be done via Golf Australia and the PGA of Australia’s new website, GOLF.com.au which goes live on October 2. 

Golf Australia has advised that there will be an offline period from the evening of September 28 through to October 2. During this short period, rounds of golf played will not be able to be handicapped or submitted to the portal. (See below)

Here is everything you need to know about the transition. We will update this regularly with new information, and additional timelimes as they come up.

IMPORTANT DATES:

  • September 28, 2025. GOLF Link offline.

    Golf Australia CONNECT Transition 

    At 10:00pm on Sunday 28th September 2025, Golf Australia will switch off GOLF Link and transition Australia’s golf handicap system to a new platform called Golf Australia CONNECT (GA CONNECT). 

    Every Australian golfer, golf club and golf course will be transitioned to the new platform. GA have advised a 4-day offline period until Thursday 2nd October to complete this task, during which we will be without a handicapping system and club competitions and CSS score submissions will be suspended. 

    During this time, NO SOCIAL ROUNDS OR COMPETITIONS CAN BE PROCESSED by Golf Australia. In addition, no new handicaps can be activated.

    • Offline Period – Handicap Scoring Suspended 

      Please note that due to GA transitioning to the new Golf Australia CONNECT platform, GA have announced that rounds played from 29th September until 2nd October are ineligible for handicapping. No scorecards can be submitted to SGA during this time. We will endeavor to process all scores received before 28th September as quickly as possible. Normal operations will resume on 2nd October once the GA CONNECT transition is complete. 

      So, during the outage period, please play golf, have fun, and then dispose of the scorecard thoughtfully as it won’t be added to your playing history.

    • NOTE THAT SGA will still take orders for new handicaps, as well as renewals, during this time.  All orders will be placed in a queue for GA Activation and processing.

      • If your current handicap subscription is set to lapse or expire during this time, you must still renew and pay through the SGA website per your subscription dates. 

    Golfer account verification process 

    To access handicapping functions, all golfers will be required to have an account on the new mobile app or through the new website GOLF.com.au. As part of the transition, all existing GOLF Link account holders will be required to verify their accounts. 

    This process will require you to enter your Golf ID (which is the same number as their existing GOLF Link number) and receive an email verification. Further details about this account verification process will be provided to both clubs and golfers closer to the transition date. 

  • October 2, 2025: Golf Australia CONNECT Live

    • Golf Australia CONNECT goes live.
    • A new website, GOLF.com.au goes live (Replacing golf.org.au)
    • Additionally, a new app will be made available to golfers for download from their phone's app stores.

  • October 10, 2025: Competitions Resume

    • Australian golf competitions resume
    • Scores can be processed/added to a golf history.

What's Changing: Golf Australia CONNECT

  • GOLF ID Numbers (Formerly GOLF Link number)

    Golfers' current GOLF Link numbers will now be referred to as a Golf ID number. This number will be used for all handicapping and competitions.

    For current handicap holders, your current GOLF Link number will stay the same. This will become your permanent/Lifetime Golf ID number. This number will not change if you change clubs.

    For golfers who have never held a handicap in the past, Golf Australia will assign new Golf ID numbers based on a new numbering system. (The current system of assigning club-related prefixes to a handicap number will be retired.) Thus, a Golf ID will no longer identify your club after October 2.

  • New Golf Australia App

    Included with the launch is a new GA Official App. The App will be available for download via the Apple and Google stores. The minimum phone requirements for the app are: Apple: iPhone 8 and onwards. Android: TBC.

  • Conforming Social Scores

    New CSS Submission Process from 2nd October

    From 2nd October, all SGA members must submit CSS scorecards directly to Golf Australia. To assist you in transitioning to submitting your scorecards directly to GA, we will keep the CSS submission form on our website available until Friday 31st October. From 1st November this page will be taken down and the only way to submit cards will be via the GA App and/or www.golf.com.au website. 

  • View Your Handicap via the new Golf.com.au website

    From October 2, Golfers will be able to visit golf.com.au to:

    • Log in to a personal golfer portal to view your GA Handicap, track scoring history, follow friends, and monitor progress over time.
    • Also, golfers can find golf experiences nearby, including public courses, national participation programs, mini golf, indoor golf, driving ranges and your nearest PGA Professional for lessons and expert advice.
    • In addition, you can follow professional golf, access club and facility resources, access rules and more.

  • Plastic Membership Cards eliminated in favour of Digital Golf ID

    In July 2025, GA Australia stopped issuing GOLF Link Cards. From 2nd October, use golf.com.au and the official GA App to access your Golf ID, handicap, playing history and to submit scorecards. 

  • Australian Rules of Handicapping Changes 

    From 2nd October 2025, when Golf Australia’s new digital platform goes live, your GA Handicap will be calculated using updated Australian Rules of Handicapping in line with the World Handicap System. These updates will make handicaps fairer, more consistent, and more reflective of actual playing conditions. 

    The four key changes are: 

    1. A new “Consistency Factor” for Daily Handicap calculations, supporting fairer competition and equity for female players. 
    1. A revised formula for 9-hole rounds, making shorter formats more accurate. 
    1. Adjusted expected scores for holes not played, using statistical modelling. 
    1. A refined ’Daily Difficulty’ calculation (PCC), back-calculated to 1 January 2023. 

    NOTE: You may see see a small change to your GA Handicap on 2 October. The change is projected to be less than 0.5 strokes on average, although some players may see a bigger adjustment based on their unique scoring history. The system applies the changes automatically, so you don’t need to do anything. 

ChangestoGolfRules2025

What’s Not Changing? 

First Time Handicap Scores – No Change

If you have applied for a GA handicap for the first time, there is no change to the way you submit scores for your first 54 holes. Please e-mail your scores to scorecards@sgagolfclub.com.au or visit our website at https://socialgolfaustralia.com.au/submit-your-scorecards-logged-in/  

Handicap Renewals – No Change 

We will be issuing handicap renewal notices and accepting handicap renewal payments as normal during the transition period. Renewal payments received during the offline period will be processed as soon as normal operations resume on 2nd October. 

 

SGA Tournaments – No Change 

If you play in SGA tournaments then please note there is no change. You will continue to use Golf Genius to enter player scores at SGA tournaments. 

 

Further Information 

Golf Australia Resources 

https://golf-australia-connect-club-guide.my.canva.site/golf-australia-connect-golfer-information-guide 

What Happens Next? 

We will keep you informed with updates throughout the transition to GA CONNECT. Should there be any changes or delays in the GA CONNECT rollout we will let you know via our newsletter and FAQ page. 

For full information about the transition to Golf Australia Connect, click here

Win a Year’s Supply of Srixon Z-Star Series Tour Balls

Win a Year's Supply of Srixon Z-Star Series Tour Balls

Enter to Win a Year's Supply* of Srixon Z-Star Series Tour Balls, courtesy of SGA and Srixon Cleveland Australia.

Z-STAR provides maximum greenside spin for unmatched control and stopping power. Its premium 3-piece construction gives skilled players complete tour performance, tee to green.

 

Srixon Z-Star Series Tour Ball

Enter Here

This competition is closed. The Winner is Trent Marshall

* Winner will receive 6 dozen Srixon Z-Star Series Tour balls, in their choice of model/colour. Winner will be chosen at random from the list of all entries. Competition open ONLY to residents of Australia. All other SGA Terms and Conditions apply. Competition ends on Friday, Sept 12 at Midnight.

Ladies upstage the men at the 2025 SGA Autumn Classic

Ladies upstage the men at the SGA Autumn Classic!

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2025AutumnClassicWinners_teams
Gorgeous weather, great people and a pair of magnificent golf courses set the stage for the 2025 SGA Autumn Classic over the weekend.

A total of 45 men and women golfers from across Victoria, NSW and WA competed in the event, which featured a combination of Solo Stableford and Pairs Best Ball, played over 36 holes at Bright Country Golf Club and Myrtleford Golf Club.

Notably, the ladies outplayed the men over the weekend, with the podium an all-girls affair (It's true: Girls Just Want to have fun, as witnessed by Marcella Broz's shirt on Sunday - see the photo!).
In the teams event, it was a nail-biting three-way tie for first on 90 total Stableford points, requiring a countback to determine the placings. Congratulations to 2025 champions Helen O’Shea and Jo Crowston, who pipped Di Francois and Rosie Trewin, followed by Rukshana Mohammed and Marcella Broz.
In the individual comp, the ladies also dominated the leaderboard. Di Francois blitzed the field with 78 total stableford points, followed by Marcella Broz on 73, and Helen O’Shea on 72. Congratulations, too, to Suba Thiruchenthuran, who captured the Friday warm-up round at Bright GC.

PHOTO GALLERIES

Friday - Warm-up Day

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Saturday - R1

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Sunday - R2

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Thanks

We'd like to thank our host clubs, Myrtleford Golf Club and Bright Country Golf Club for having us. Special thanks to Michael and the team at Bright Chalet for the lovely accommodation, food and the assistance in hosting the event.

A warm thank you to all of our players for joining us for a great weekend - you are the reason why our events are so fun and successful. A special thanks to our sponsors, Srixon Australia & New Zealand, MGI Golf, Garmin Australia, Drummond Golf, Heathcote Winery and TCN for their generous prizes.

Final Scores - 2025 SGA Autumn Classic

Pairs Best Ball

  Pos. Team Points R1 R2
T1 O'Shea + Crowston 90 40 50
T1 Francois + Trewin 90 44 46
T1 Mohammed + Broz 90 46 44
4 Westmore + Di Stasio 86 44 42
T5 Grace + Burnett 83 47 36
T5 O'Shea + O'Shea 83 40 43
T7 Jarvis + Moscato 82 40 42
T7 Nicolson + Nicolson 82 44 38
9 Fellner + Johnstone 81 43 38
T10 Thiruloganathan +
Thiruchenthuran		 79 40 39
T10 Eldridge + Eldridge 79 38 41
T10 Jones + Bish 79 31 48
T10 Carlisle + David 79 41 38
14 Kumar + Mohammed 78 38 40
15 May + May 75 43 32
T16 Lane + Ray 74 40 34
T16 Dunn + Lendrum 74 39 35
18 Matthews + Stephenson 73 41 32
19 O'Sullivan + O'Sullivan 72 36 36
20 O'Sullivan + Clark 71 36 35
21 Corn + Jennings 68 37 31
22 Balmer + Calver 61 32 29

Singles Stableford

Pos. Player Total
Points		 R1 R2
1 Dianne Francois 78 38 40
2 Marcella Broz 73 39 34
3 Helen O'Shea 72 33 39
4 Rukshana Mohammed 71 36 35
5 Carmel Nicolson 70 39 31
6 Alan Bish 69 28 41
7 Nicole Di Stasio 68 35 33
T8 Jo Crowston 67 27 40
T8 Kerri Westmore 67 33 34
T8 Mick David 67 32 35
T8 Rosie Trewin 67 35 32
T12 Anthony Moscato 66 30 36
T12 Suba Thiruchenthuran 66 36 30
T14 Michael O'Shea 65 31 34
T14 Atholl Johnstone 65 33 32
T14 Haroon Mohammed 65 33 32
T14 Richard Fellner 65 38 27
T18 Nathan O'Sullivan 63 32 31
T18 Robert Nicolson 63 35 28
T20 Cindy Burnett 62 38 24
T20 Tony Eldridge 62 32 30
T22 Michelle Jarvis 61 34 27
T22 Connie Grace 61 33 28
24 Stuart Carlisle 60 33 27
T25 Andrea Ray 59 32 27
T25 Linda Eldridge 59 28 31
T27 Mark Stephenson 58 32 26
T27 Rodney Jennings 58 29 29
T29 Thomas Balmer 57 32 25
T29 Cameron Dunn 57 28 29
T31 Andrew Lane 55 29 26
T31 John O'Shea 55 23 32
T31 Ivan Jones 55 25 30
T31 Andrew Clark 55 29 26
35 Michael O'Sullivan 54 29 25
T36 Arvin Kumar 52 29 23
T36 Marion May 52 33 19
38 T-Rex Thiruloganathan 50 25 25
39 Joel Matthews 49 27 22
40 Duncan Lendrum 47 27 20
41 Kym Corn 45 26 19
T42 Jeremy O'Sullivan 44 25 19
T42 Stephen May 44 22 22
44 Phoebe Burfield 33 33
45 Stuart Calver 23 9 14

Team North storms to 2025 Trans-Murray Matchplay Victory

Team North storms to 2025 Trans-Murray Matchplay Victory

trans-murray match play

It was an exciting week of golf for the 2025 Trans-Murray Matchplay. 66 golfers from both sides of the Murray River returned to Canberra to represent their region, and battle for supremacy in this annual Teams Matchplay event. This was the 12th running of the annual Trans-Murray Matchplay, and Team North was keen to reclaim their past glory, and bring the "Murray" trophy home, having lost the previous two events.

There was some incredible competition, great sportsmanship, and some truly awesome camaraderie throughout the week.

Day 1

The First day's action (Pairs/Ambrose), saw a friendly yet fierce start to the event, played at the gorgeous Federal Golf Club, which was in great condition, and a proved to be a delight for our players.

The highlight of the day included a Hole-in-One by south stalwart, David Murray, who aced the tricky 16th hole. Congratulations David!
After the scores were tallied after Day 1, Team North jumped out to an early 9.5 to 7.5 lead.
Screenshot 2025-02-28 092229

Day 2

Day 2 of the 2025 Trans-Murray Matchplay saw a heap of action at the magnificent Gold Creek, with the lead see-sawing all day. Team South started off strong, but North dominated the final pairings.  In the Alternate-shot pairs format of the day, Team North edged further ahead, taking 9 matches to South's 8.

Screenshot 2025-02-28 092251

Day 3

There was excitement in the air for the all-important Singles matches on Day 3, at the picturesque Gungahlin Lakes. The scoring was tight, and both teams were feeling the pressure.  With thunderstorms predicted for the afternoon, both teams aimed to take an early lead, as they knew that EVERY POINT MATTERED.

With winds and a bit of on-again-off-again rain (the thunderstorms never eventuated, despite a bit of lightning in the distance) the players all battled hard.

Following the round, the points were tallied as the players enjoyed drinks, food, laughter and stories of made (and missed) putts from the week.

When the points were finalised, Despite a valiant effort by Team South in the Saturday Singles, the Northerners were just too strong, capturing "Murray" with a 38 to 29 Victory.

Screenshot 2025-02-28 092349

Congratulations to Team North!!

Final points:

Team D1 D2 D3 Total Points
North 9.5 9.0 19.5 38
South 7.5 8.0 13.5 29

For day-by-day scores and matches, see the leaderboard on Golf Genius.

Special Thanks

We would like to thank all the competitors (and their spouses/partners/plus-ones) for an incredible week at the 2025 Trans-Murray Matchplay. The success of these events is mostly due to the quality of the participants, and we believe that our golfers are of the highest quality anywhere!

Thanks to our host courses Federal Golf Club , Gold Creek Country Club and Gungahlin Lakes Club for sharing your wonderful courses. And thanks to our sponsors Srixon Australia & New Zealand MGI Golf Garmin Australia Heathcote Winery Card.Gift .

Photo Galleries: 2025 Trans-Murray Matchplay

Photo Gallery - Day 1. Federal Golf Club

Photo Gallery - Day 2 Gold Creek.

Photo Gallery - Day 3. Gungahlin Lakes GC

Golf Australia announces Changes to Player Liability Insurance

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Golf Australia implements changes to Player Liability Insurance

March 1st Changes to affect all holders of Australian Golf Handicaps

Golf Australia, golf's governing body in Australia and administrator of all golf handicaps in the country, is set to implement changes to the Liability Insurance coverage which is included as part of all golf handicaps held by golfers in Australia.

The changes, which go into effect on March 1, 2025, will limit coverage regarding third-party property damage to things like Golf Carts, personal electronics and more.

Golf Australia announced the upcoming policy changes in December 2024 in a letter to clubs and courses. (Changes have been highlighted in bold):

We are writing to inform you of important changes to the Player’s Personal Liability Insurance Policy offered by Golf Australia, which is a key benefit of affiliation membership for all club members.

These changes have been implemented to ensure this policy, which has been in place virtually unchanged for 15 years, can continue to protect players going forward.

In recent years, it has become increasingly difficult and expensive to source this insurance.  As the popularity of golf has grown, we have seen an increase in the number of incidents reported. Golf Australia remains committed to finding solutions that will provide Players Personal Liability Policy to Australian affiliated golfers.

In recent months, Golf Australia has reviewed several options in respect of this policy.  In doing so Golf Australia’s primary objective has been to maintain protection for members in the event of serious personal injury, with changes to take effect from March 1, 2025, to ensure the policy remains affordable and sustainable.

1. Policy Background

Golf Australia has maintained this insurance policy for affiliated club members since 2009 as a key feature of membership.  Negotiating as a collective, we can secure coverage at a far lower cost than would otherwise be available to individual clubs and/or players, whilst delivering quality coverage for the benefit of members.  Over the past five years, the policy has paid $3.4 million in claims to protect our members.

As an added incentive for golfers to take out a membership, insurance has always been limited to club members and does not apply to non-members or green fee players.

The original purpose of the policy was to protect members from significant liability if they caused personal injury to another golfer/person.  The policy was established following the legal action taken by an injured golfer because of an incident at the Magnetic Island Golf Club in 1994 and subsequent court ruling in 2003.

Golf Australia’s Player Personal Liability Policy offers up to $20 million personal liability cover with nil excess for protection against litigation from a third party for damage to property or personal injury that occurs while an eligible member is playing or practising golf.  Golf Australia sources this policy each year and forms part of the National affiliation fees which each Club pays on behalf of all affiliated golf members.

2. Policy Review

There has been a significant increase in claims frequency over the past five years on the policy, with claims rising by 129% since 2020 to a total of 581 submitted in the 2024 financial year.

Our review has identified that most claims against the policy over recent years fall outside of the original intent of the program.  Specifically, while the policy was intended to provide coverage for personal injury claims, the policy is now being primarily used for property damage claims, many with small financial value.

A high proportion of these claims are concentrated to a small number of clubs that experience property damage claims at a significantly higher rate than the balance of the industry.

The direct consequence of this increase in claims is that the cost of the policy has increased significantly, and Golf Australia is now challenged in sourcing insurers that are willing to provide coverage.

It is for this reason that Golf Australia has considered several changes in respect of this policy.

3. What is changing?

The following changes to the policy terms, will take effect from March 1, 2025.

Exclusions: Specific exclusions have been added for any claim, loss, damage, liability or costs and expenses incurred directly or indirectly in connection with third party property damage to:

golf carts; and

personal electronic devices include phone, iPad, watch, rangefinder or anything similar.

Excess: There are now three categories of insurance claim:

a. Personal injury claims – NO excess will be payable

b. Property damage where golfer is found to have followed all expected duty of care, local rules and the Rules of Golf – NO excess payable

c. Property damage where golfer is found to have acted in a negligent manner and caused damage to a third-party property - $1,000 excess is payable

Claims Process: Before the excess is payable on all property damage claims, the insurer will conduct a thorough investigation to determine if the individual member is likely to incur any legal liability through negligence.

The policy was established to provide legal protection for affiliated members, not to provide cover for any golfing incidence regardless of the cause, and in some instances, the cause of the incident may be found to be another party (ie.  Club with a known boundary issue).

In these instances, the insurer will indemnify the member as is the intent of the policy and if the insurer determines that that member was not negligent in their actions and therefore not liable, then the insurer may choose to defend the claim rather than settle the claim.

With this increased focus of investigation during the claims process, Clubs that are involved in a high level of property damage claims must ensure they have adequate risk management practices in place to reduce the likelihood of recurring incidents occurring.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT GOLF AUSTRALIA'S PERSONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE, CLICK HERE

Golf Australia announces changes to 2025 Player’s Personal Liability Insurance Policy

GA announces changes to the Player’s Personal Liability Insurance Policy

Golf Australia, the National Governing Body for golf in Australia, has announced important changes to the Insurance Policy covering golfers for Personal Liability/damages, starting March 1, 2025.

The policy, which covers all club golfers who have an official Handicap (including golfers who have a handicap with the Social Golf Australia Golf Club), offers up to $20 million in personal liability cover for protection regarding certain damages which may occur while playing golf.

According to GA, the March 2025 changes will now exclude damage to Golf Carts and electronic devices (phones, rangefinders, etc). In addition, there will be changes to the excess required when filing a claim.

Here is the email sent to golfers from Golf Australia:

We are writing to inform you of important changes to your Player’s Personal Liability Insurance Policy offered by Golf Australia, which is a key benefit as part of your membership of an affiliated golf club.

Golf Australia has maintained this policy on behalf of club members since 2009 and in the past 5 years alone, has paid out $3.4 million in claims to protect our members. The original purpose of the policy was to protect members from liability if they caused personal injury to another golfer/person.  The policy was established following the legal action taken by an injured golfer because of an incident at the Magnetic Island Golf Club in 1994 and subsequent court ruling in 2003.

Golf Australia’s Player Personal Liability Policy offers up to $20 million personal liability cover for protection against litigation from a third party for damage to property or personal injury that occurs while an eligible member is playing or practicing golf.

In recent years, it has become increasingly difficult and expensive to source this insurance on your behalf.  As the popularity of golf has grown, we have seen an increase in the number of reported incidents. Golf Australia remains committed to finding solutions that will provide Players Personal Liability Policy to Australian affiliated golfers.

In recent months, Golf Australia has reviewed several options in respect of this policy.  In doing so Golf Australia’s primary objective has been to maintain protection for members in the event of serious personal injury, with changes to take effect from March 1, 2025, to ensure the policy remains affordable and sustainable

What is changing?  

Exclusions: Specific exclusions have been added for any claim, loss, damage, liability or costs and expenses incurred directly or indirectly in connection with third party property damage to:

  • golf carts; and
  • personal electronic devices include phone, iPad, watch, rangefinder or anything similar.

Excess: There are now three categories of insurance claim:

  • Personal injury claims – NO excess will be payable
  • Property damage where a golfer is found to have followed all expected duty of care, local rules and the Rules of Golf – NO excess payable
  • Property damage where golfer is found to have acted in a negligent manner and caused damage to a third-party property - $1,000 excess is payable

What does the policy cover?

The policy covers the legal liability that an eligible member of an affiliated club may incur while playing or practicing golf. It provides coverage for up to $20 million of liability for any one incident.  This includes accidental injury or damage you may cause to someone else or their property for which you were found to have caused, subject to the Exclusions of the Policy, some of which are outlined below.

This coverage is provided automatically to individual club members although members are under no obligation to engage this insurance policy in the event of an incident.

What is not covered by this policy?

While this is not exhaustive, this policy does not cover:

  • Any third-party damage or personal injury caused by non-member (ie. green fee player);
  • A member's own equipment for damage or loss;
  • A member's own personal injuries sustained on a golf course
  • Any damage that you cause to a cart that you own, hire or borrow; and
  • Actions that deliberately cause damage or injury and are determined to be wilful conduct.

As a reminder to all golfers, it's important to always notify the club of any damage incurred while playing golf - notably to any property/houses along the course. In some cases, the club/course may have separate coverage, but can only file a claim if the golfer has reported the incident.

SGA partners with MGI Golf – Australia’s leader in electric golf buggies

SGA partners with MGI Golf – Australia’s leader in electric golf buggies

Australia's Largest Golf Club joins forces with Australia’s Number One Electric Golf Buggy Brand.

 

 

MGI_Logo_800x450

MELBOURNE, VICTORIA: Australia’s Largest Golf Club, Social Golf Australia (SGA), has partnered with MGI Golf, Australia’s Leader in Electric Golf Buggies.

Recently appointed as America’s Number One electric golf buggy, MGI Golf is looking to continue its momentum through its partnership with Australia’s Largest Golf Club, Social Golf Australia. The collaboration will see MGI’s wide range of industry-leading electric golf buggies feature at various SGA Golf Events and Open Days, allowing SGA golfers a hands-on opportunity to experience the features and benefits throughout the MGI lineup.

“MGI Golf is an ideal fit as an SGA partner, as we are both proudly Australian-owned and operated family businesses that share similar core values and vision. In addition, we even share a comparable business history,” explains Matthew Pitt, Founder and Managing Director of SGA.

“Both MGI and SGA began as small family businesses, run out of our homes while concurrently raising small families. Throughout the years, both of our brands battled through the ups and downs of business as we strove to create what are now two of the market leaders in our respective segments.

“We are absolutely thrilled to be on board with MGI Golf. And we are looking forward to introducing their amazing and innovative products to our huge community of golfers across the country,” Pitt said.

When asked about the recent partnership with Social Golf Australia, MGI Golf Chief Executive Officer Carrie Edwards-Britt said “We at MGI Golf, are thrilled to announce our partnership with Social Golf Australia. Our shared passion for golf and the synergies between our companies, lay a solid foundation for hopefully a long and successful partnership. SGA's network of golfers and commitment to the golfing community align perfectly with our vision of enhancing the golfing experience for players at all levels. We can't wait to see our electric buggies in action at SGA events, bringing a new level of experience and enjoyment to their members”.

MGI Golf products will be available for order soon via SGA.

ABOUT SOCIAL GOLF AUSTRALIA

Social Golf Australia is the largest golfing community in Australia and have a range of industry partners (Including Srixon & Cleveland Golf, Garmin, The Card Network, Drummond Golf, Heathcote Winery and now MGI Golf) that support SGA offering great value golf services. They currently offer official golf handicaps (over 22,000 GolfLink Numbers issued since 2007). In addition, they host over 120 events a year across the country, run a variety of annual major tournaments (from 3-7 days long), charity golf events, and other feature events and golf tours. The business focusses on fostering a friendly and welcoming golfing community based on the values of honesty, integrity, loyalty and trust.  Their approach is to offer golfers value, flexibility and choice in a user-pays model where they can select the services that suit them and pay only for what they need.

 

ABOUT MGI GOLF

For over 30 Years, MGI Golf has been synonymous with producing high quality electric golf buggies to power the modern golfer. Founded in 1993 in Melbourne, this Australian owned and operated business was built on foundations of innovation and quality design. A world leader in technological advancements, it was this commitment to product development and support that resulted in owning the Australian market and allowed the team to set their sights on international markets.

First powering onto American courses in 2018, MGI are celebrating their recent appointment as America’s Number One Electric Golf Buggy. Understanding that the needs of each golfer are unique, MGI have developed a range of buggies and accessories to help improve the health and maximise performance of each user. Supported by an extensive sales and servicing network throughout Australia, they have gained the trust of golfers nationwide. With decades of experience in the industry, MGI are committed to continue revolutionising the great game of golf in Australia and abroad.

www.mgigolf.com

 

CONTACT 

Richard Fellner
Media Manager, SGA
e: media@sgatour.com.au
m: 0407 000 440

Mick David
General Manager, SGA
e: mick@sgatour.com.au
m: 0402 488 253

Matthew Pitt
Founder, Managing Director, SGA
e: matt@sgatour.com.au
m: 0425 742 501

For further information or to contact the team at MGI Golf, email marketing@mgigolf.com or call 03 8872 6700.