Check before you play
Confirm your current handicap, the tees and the competition format. Ask how your strokes are allocated across the holes.
A FAIR GAME FOR EVERYONE
Your game.
A level playing field.
Handicaps help golfers of different abilities compete together. Know your handicap, check your strokes for the day and enjoy the round.
BEFORE YOU TEE OFF
Start with the
right handicap.
Your GA Handicap provides a measure of your golfing ability. Your Daily Handicap adapts it to the course and tees you are playing. The competition format may also affect the handicap used for scoring.
Check your current record on GOLF.com.au or in the official Golf Australia app, then confirm the handicap to use with the competition organisers before you start.
Check your GA Handicap (opens in a new tab)Know the difference.
| Term | What it means |
|---|---|
| GA Handicap | Your official handicap record, maintained through Golf Australia’s handicapping system. |
| Daily Handicap | Your handicap for the course and tees being played, taking account of their ratings and the applicable Australian calculation. |
| Playing Handicap | The handicap used for the competition after any applicable handicap allowance. Confirm it with the organisers. |
Use the confirmed figure for your round.
Course ratings, tees and competition allowances can change the number of strokes you receive. Check the official competition system or ask the handicapper rather than carrying over a figure from a previous round.
Keep an accurate card
Record your hole scores carefully, including penalties. Check the card with your marker and follow the event’s score submission process.
Ask when you are unsure
Speak with the club handicapper or committee about a missing score, a handicap query or your eligibility for an event.
A FEW THINGS TO KNOW
Handicap questions, answered.
I am new to golf. How do I get a handicap?
Contact the club before your first round. We can explain the membership options, who can maintain your official handicap and what scores you need to submit to establish it.
Where can I view my official handicap?
Use GOLF.com.au (opens in a new tab) or the official Golf Australia app. For account or record queries, visit Golf Australia support (opens in a new tab).
Can I play in every club competition?
Eligibility depends on the event. The club constitution sets out membership, handicap and prior participation requirements for our major competitions. Read the club constitution and check with the committee before entering.
Where can I learn about the official system?
Golf Australia CONNECT (opens in a new tab) explains the national handicapping platform. The club handicapper can help you understand how your record relates to our competitions.
YOUR NEXT ROUND STARTS HERE
There’s always room
for one more.
Need help with your handicap or getting started?
Get in touch and we will point you in the right direction.