As five-time major champion Rory McIlroy prepares to take to the field later this week, fans will be excited to again see him in action on the famed Melbourne Sandbelt in 2026, with the national championship returning to the prestigious Kingston Heath Golf Club, which last hosted the event in 2024.

There has been strong demand for the event, with General Admission tickets exhausted for Saturday and Sunday of this year’s event, while AMEX Ticket+ passes from Thursday to Sunday are also exhausted.

Golf Australia CEO James Sutherland said that this year’s event has reached new heights. 

“This year’s Crown Australian Open will set a new benchmark for the tournament, not just in the quality of the field, but the fan experience and global attention,” Sutherland said.

"The presentation of the course will be another reminder as to why Royal Melbourne and the Melbourne Sandbelt are revered around the world.

“We’re proud to work with the Victorian Government and Visit Victoria to deliver an event that drives the visitor economy, and brings more people to our sport.”

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said:

“Securing the next two Australian Opens and having Rory McIlroy play in them is a major win for Victoria, with viewers from 180 countries able to tune in and see the best of our state on show.”

“Tens of thousands of fans are also flocking here from around the world to fill hotel rooms, restaurants and cafes – boosting our $43.7 billion visitor economy, which supports 288,000 jobs across the state.”

Kingston Heath Golf Club Captain Stephen Montfort said:

"We’re extremely proud to welcome the Australian Open back to Kingston Heath in 2026. Our course has hosted some remarkable champions over the years, and that history is something we are very proud of.

“Next year, one of the game's most exciting players, Rory McIlroy, will grace our fairways for the first time as a professional golfer, and perhaps have the opportunity to add his name alongside other champions to win a major event at Kingston Heath.

“To have the opportunity to showcase Kingston Heath on the world stage again is both an honour and a thrill for the club. We’re looking forward to adding another memorable chapter to our story."

General public tickets for the 2026 Crown Australian Open will go on sale on Tuesday, December 9, via Ticketek.