Golf in Australia is booming like never before, with participation rates soaring to record heights. In 2023-24, nearly 3.8 million adult Australians swung a golf club — making golf one of Australia’s biggest participation sports. Golf club membership itself grew by 5.6 percent last year, reaching 459,143 members, a remarkable 19 percent increase over the past five years.
The tide of newcomers shows that Australians are rediscovering golf for fun, fitness and friendship, especially among retirees and those seeking new social circles in their 60s.
Traditional memberships: pricey for many
While interest in golf grows, the costs of joining traditional golf clubs can be significant. Annual membership fees at established clubs like Wynnum Golf Club, for example, run at about $1500+ for full members, plus an entrance fee of $500 and other levies. Even ‘lifestyle’ memberships typically cost more than $860 per year, plus relevant affiliation fees. For many, especially people on fixed incomes, these costs can be prohibitive.
Social Golf Clubs: Fun, flexible and friendly
Social golf clubs have thrived as an alternative, offering affordable, flexible and welcoming ways to play golf. Unlike traditional clubs, social golf groups let you sample a variety of courses rather than being tied to just one, and they foster a genuine community of like-minded players. Membership is usually much less expensive – often $60-$100 per year – and typically comes with perks like club shirts, caps and green fees that suit every budget.
