The much-anticipated return of golf in Melbourne has been delayed because Victoria has not yet reached 80 percent of first-dose Covid-19 vaccinations.

Under original projections of the vaccination roll-out, the restart of golf was anticipated for this Sunday. But clubs and facilities were told today that Victoria will likely not have reached the 80 percent target by then.

The Heath Minister, Martin Foley, told a media conference in Melbourne today that 76.2 percent of eligible Victorians were now vaccinated at least once, but that the 80 percent target was a few days away.

Golf Australia has called on the government to provide clarity for clubs and facilities who need time to prepare for an imminent return of golf.

"We understand that golf clubs, facilities and PGA members require more than a few hours’ notice to recommence operations, and we have reiterated this point to government in discussions," GA said in its communication to clubs and facilities. "We have sought clarity as soon as practicable to give clubs, facilities and PGA members time to prepare for a return to play."

Foley said the government would be firm on its targets. "We would expect by mid to late next week, we will hit that (80 percent), which is a fantastic achievement. The more people who come forward, the sooner we will get there."