FAQs | #AusOpenGolf
Whether you're a seasoned golf fan or new to the game, attending the ISPS HANDA Australian Open offers a unique and exciting experience. This FAQ page provides essential information for spectators, including details on event schedules, ticketing, venue access, and tips to make the most of your time at the tournament. From parking and transport options to food, seating, and what to bring, we've got you covered so you can enjoy the action both on and off the course.
What are the dates of the event?
Tuesday 26th November - Official Practice Day
Wednesday 27th November - Pro Am and Official Practice Day
Thursday 28th November - ISPA HANDA Australian Open
Friday 29th November - ISPA HANDA Australian Open
Saturday 30th November - ISPA HANDA Australian Open
Sunday 1st December - ISPA HANDA Australian Open
Will there be bag checks upon entry?
Yes, bag checks will be completed upon entry.
What time is the first tee?
Thursday & Friday 6:55am.
Saturday & Sunday (exact time TBC pending cut)
What time do gates open?
Gates will open from 6:30am
Do I need to pre-book my tickets?
No, tickets can be purchased at Gate 1 at Victoria GC and Gate 1 and 2 at Kingston Heath GC. Alternatively, you can pre-purchase tickets via Ticketek.
Can I buy tickets at the venue, or does it need to be done in advance?
We recommend purchasing your ticket in advance to avoid queuing on the day, however tickets can be purchased at Gate 1 at Victoria GC and gate 1 and 2 at Kingston Heath GC.
Please note tickets purchased in advance are cheaper. Tickets can be purchased via Ticketek.
Is there a ticketing window located at the venue in case of any ticketing issues?
Yes, ticketek staff will be onsite to assist you with any ticketing issues.
Do I need to print tickets or can I scan my mobile tickets?
Both printed tickets or mobile tickets are acceptable for entry.
I am looking for a premium, all-inclusive hospitality experience. Is there an option for me?
Yes! There are a range of hospitality experiences available. They can be booked directly via our hospitality provider STH here.
Who is the ticketing provider?
Ticketek – Tickets can be purchased here.
Where can I find more information about Tickets?
Ticketek can help here.
How do I book hospitality?
Hospitality can be booked directly via our hospitality provider STH here.
Is there a dress code for Hospitality?
Smart Casual – guests are advised to wear clothing and footwear suitable for the weather.
What is the policy on bringing children into hospitality?
Children (17 and under) are not permitted in the hospitality marquees.
Can you cater for special dietary requirements?
Yes, dietary requirements can be catered for but need to be lodged via our ticketing provider upon purchase.
What does the full beverage service include?
Our full beverage service in the hospitality spaces includes beer, wine, sparkling wine and soft drinks.
How do I use the priority entry included in my hospitality ticket?
Your hospitality ticket will allow priority entry at both Gate 1 and 2 at Kingston Heath and again as you enter the hospitality suites.
Are Children Under 17 free? How many children per purchased adult ticket?
Children aged 17 and under will be admitted free and do not require a pre-purchased ticket for entry. Max 8 children per adult.
Is there a suggested access/travel method for families?
There are a few suggested options that may best appeal to families:
1. Public car park to Kingston Heath (600m walk to gate).
2. Shuttle Buses from Southland train station which will drop you off outside the main public event entrance at Kingston Heath.
3. For Victoria Golf Club the train to Cheltenham where you can then walk to the entrance to the Victoria GC.
Is there pram access on Tournament shuttle buses from Southland etc?
These will be low floor buses (like airport buses) and cater for accessibility thus pram access will be straightforward.
I’ll have kids with me – what are the walking times from car parks and public transport so I can plan my trip?
Public Carpark (KH only) parking via Centre Dandenong road: 10min walk (600m) via a gravel walking track.
Public buses and ride share will drop patrons right outside gate 1 at KH, 3min walk.
Cheltenham train station to VGC 1.1km, 14 min walk.
Shuttle Bus from Southland train station to VGC will drop right outside gate 1 at VGC, 3min walk
Can I bring a pram to the course?
Yes, prams are fine to bring!
If walking the course, are they pram friendly?
Yes, walking the course (outside of the ropes) is pram friendly. Please note that most of the terrain consists of grass or compacted sand, thus prams with larger wheels (rather than travel-sized prams) will better handle these conditions.
Are there parents’ facilities available? Where are they located?
Yes, these are available in The 19th Fan Village, please refer to the course map.
Are there baby changing facilities? Where are they located?
Yes, these are available in The 19th Fan Village, please refer to the course map.
What happens if I lose my child?
If your child becomes lost - please go to the information booth at The 19th Fan Village, our team will be on hand to assist you.
Is there a kid’s zone?
Yes, there is a dedicated kid’s zone within The 19th – located at Kingston Heath to the left of the 10th tee/fairway and clubhouse.
From face painting, mini golf, balloons, colouring and giant games to name a few – it's going to be action packed kids fun!
How do I book hospitality?
Hospitality can be booked directly via our hospitality provider STH here.
Is there a dress code for Hospitality?
Smart Casual – guests are advised to wear clothing and footwear suitable for the weather.
What is the policy on bringing children into hospitality?
Children (17 and under) are not permitted in the hospitality marquees.
Can you cater for special dietary requirements?
Yes, dietary requirements can be catered for but need to be lodged via our ticketing provider upon purchase.
What does the full beverage service include?
Our full beverage service in the hospitality spaces includes beer, wine, sparkling wine and soft drinks.
How do I use the priority entry included in my hospitality ticket?
Your hospitality ticket will allow priority entry at both Gate 1 and 2 at Kingston Heath and again as you enter the hospitality suites.
Is there a dress code for the public access areas?
Dress for the weather and golf course terrain. Melbourne’s conditions can change quickly, so check the forecast and consider bringing headwear, sunscreen, and suitable footwear for walking the course
Where is lost property?
Lost Property is located in The 19th Fan Village, please refer to the course map.
Are there hydration/water stations around the course available for the public? Where are they located?
Our hydrations stations are located in The 19th Fan Village, please refer to the course map. If walking the course, please fill your bottle up before heading out to ensure you stay hydrated.
Can I bring a bag in with me?
Yes, small bags are permitted (handbags/backpacks etc). Security will be checking bags at the entry gate.
Is there a cloakroom?
Yes, in the hospitality marquees, a cloakroom is available. This is for hospitality patrons only.
Can I bring food or drinks in?
No, outside food and drink is not permitted. There are substantial food and drink options within The 19th Fan Village.
Can I bring a fold up chair?
Yes, folding chairs are permitted if you want to bring your own to sit around the course in permitted areas.
Can children attend?
Yes, children are welcomed to our event. Children aged 17 and under will be admitted free (when accompanied by a paying adult) and do not require a pre-purchased ticket for entry!
Can I drink alcohol as I walk the course?
Yes, alcohol is permitted around the course and is available for purchase. We promote the responsible consumption of alcohol at all times and in turn appropriate golf etiquette.
What should I bring with me?
Check the daily forecast and dress accordingly, comfortable shoes are essential. Sunscreen and water stations will be available in the tournament village.
Can I bring a professional camera in?
No, professional cameras and lenses are not permitted. Media with professional cameras will require media accreditation.
Can I bring a drone with me?
No, drone usage is not permitted.
Are there screens available anywhere?
Super screens are located on course and in The 19th fan village to ensure you won’t miss a minute of the action!
What should I wear?
Dress to be comfortable, the weather and golf course terrain. Melbourne’s conditions can change quickly, so check the forecast and consider bringing headwear, sunscreen, and suitable footwear for walking the course.
Where do I find information on the day?
Please visit the information booth, refer to the event map.
Are golf carts permitted on the day?
No, patrons cannot use golf carts at the event.
Can I charge my phone anywhere?
No, there are no charging facilities on site. Please bring a portable charger or ensure your phone is fully charged before leaving!
Where can I find facilities like ATMs?
There are no ATM facilities onsite.
Can I smoke cigarettes or vape at Victoria or Kingston Heath?
No, smoking cigarettes or the use of Vapes is not permitted onsite in any capacity.
VISIT THE 19TH
What is The 19th?
The 19th is the ultimate fan experience at the 2024 ISPS HANDA Australian Open, blending golf with gourmet food, premium drinks, live music, and a buzzing social atmosphere. From the extensive Bars & Lounges to an action-packed kid’s zone, The 19th offers something for everyone, making it the perfect destination for friends and family to enjoy beyond the course.
Where can I find the 19th?
The 19th Fan Village is located at Kingston Heath, to the left of the 10th tee/fairway and clubhouse.
What is the Food & Beverage offering like in The 19th?
The social scene at The 19th is where the excitement of the Australian Open extends beyond the greens. Enjoy the signature Japanese-inspired flavours of Mr Miyagi or grab a cold one and unwind with friends at the Peroni Bar, a signature cocktail at Isla Vodka's lounge with a live DJ, or head to the Liquorland bar for a glass of James Busby wine or a Canard-Duchêne champagne.
Are there any theme days during the event?
Yes! On Saturday November 30, Super Saturday will be all about the off-course entertainment and fun centring around The 19th Fan Experience.
On Sunday 1st December, Fairway Funday will focus on an epic experience for the kids with an actioned packed Fan Zone and activities!
THE VICTORIA GOLF CLUB
There will be a fan village located at Victoria Golf Club where there will be the opportunity to purchase food and drink, and also watch the action on the Big Screen.
Can I drive to the two courses, Victoria & Kingston Heath?
There is FREE public parking available adjacent to the 16th Hole at Kingston heath. Please follow the signs to the Public Car Park that will be indicating the route.
There is limited parking available at The Victoria Golf Course.
There are dedicated event shuttle buses from Southlands Station to Kingston Heath free to all patrons.
Is there parking available at either course?
Public car park at Kingston Heath reserve, access via Centre Dandenong road .
Is there any transport or shuttles between the two courses?
Yes, a dedicated FREE event shuttle bus service will operate between Southland Station, Kingston Heath GC and The Victoria GC from Wednesday (27 November) to Friday (29 November), with a direct service between Southland Station and Kingston Heath GC on Saturday (30 November) & Sunday (1 December).
This is a free service for all ticketed patrons - please refer to our getting there page for the specific timetable.
What is the available public transport that goes to Victoria or Kingston Heath?
Public Transport routes can be found on the Getting There page.
Can I walk between the two courses?
Kingston Heath and Victoria golf clubs are approx. 5km apart, which is an approx. 10-minute drive. Walking from one course to the other would take just over an hour and is not recommended. We suggest you take the FREE event shuttle bus from outside of Victoria GC or Kingston Heath which will transfer you from each venue.
Can I leave the course & come back in?
Yes, noting your ticket will need to be scanned out first. If you are moving between venues via the tournament shuttle you will need a wristband as you board the bus. This will allow you access to the second venue without having to scan your ticket.
Where are the Rideshare drop off points?
Drop-off and pick-up zone located outside Gate 1 at both venues and will be signposted.
Are there disabled and/or wheelchair facilities available?
Yes, there are accessible viewing locations around the course, please refer to the course maps.
Are there disabled and/or wheelchair parking?
Accessible Drop Off Area
Accessible drop off areas will be made available at both venues. Please email info@golf.org.au in advance to arrange this.
Accessible Parking
Accessible parking options may be arranged upon request at both venues and is subject to availability. Please email info@golf.org.au in advance to arrange this.
Where can I find accessibility or MLAK toilets?
Yes, these are available in The 19th Fan Village, please refer to the course map.
How can I move around the course if I have mobility or accessibility issues?
The ground is relatively flat but being a golf course most of the terrain consists of grass or compacted sand, thus may make it challenging.
I’m new to golf. Is there Golf Course etiquette I should be aware of?
‘Fore!’ Alert – The shout of “Fore!” is the standard warning in golf when a ball may be heading towards others. If a player’s shot veers off course, they’ll yell “Fore!” to alert anyone in the area. When you hear it, quickly crouch down and shield your head & face for protection.
Rope Lines – Rope lines are set up throughout the course to mark the designated playing area. Spectators must stay behind these lines unless directed otherwise by event staff. Additional rope lines may be set up elsewhere, and the same rule applies – do not cross them unless explicitly instructed to do so.
Player and Marshal Signals – Golfers can hit the ball over long distances, so not all “Fore!” warnings are audible. Stay alert to shots on the hole and look for additional signals that a ball might be coming your way (e.g. tee marshals may point in the ball’s direction).
Course Layout and Scorecard – Each day, a draw sheet will be available with tee times for all players. The sheet typically includes a course map and scorecard, offering useful details about each hole
Course Awareness – Hole numbers will be displayed on boards at the tees. Paired with the scorecard or course layout, these will help you identify your location on the course and stay mindful of possible stray shots from nearby holes.
Golf Shot Variability – While players aim for the fairways and greens, there are natural obstacles on the course, like rough (long grass near fairways and greens) and bunkers (sand traps), which can increase the chance of an off-target shot from these areas.
Weather Conditions – Wind can significantly impact the ball’s flight path, making shots more challenging to control, especially on windy days with crosswinds. Be mindful of the wind’s direction and stay alert, especially on blustery days, to ensure your safety as a spectator.
Behaviour - Anyone acting in a manner deemed to be abusive, derogatory, rude, or aggressive may be subject to removal from the ISPS HANDA Australian Open.
