The Kiwi star is enjoying one of the best years of his career, highlighted by his popular victory at the New Zealand Open presented by Millbrook Resort in March, while he has also produced a string of impressive performances on the DP World Tour.

The 28-year-old recently finished tied second at the Husqvarna British Masters at The Belfry, where he shared the lead heading into the final round. The result continued a remarkable run at the tournament for Hillier, who won the British Masters in 2023 for his maiden DP World Tour title.

With three other top-10s in 2026, he currently sits in 12th place on the Race to Dubai standings, and with a great chance to sealing status on the PGA Tour in 2027.

Hillier will return to Australia in November for the BMW Australian PGA Championship, joining a strong international field at The Lakes from November 26-29.

“It’s always great to come back to this part of the world and play in front of plenty of Kiwi and Australian golf fans,” Hillier said.

“I know Sydney has a big contingent of New Zealanders living there so hopefully they can get out and support all the Kiwis playing at The Lakes.

“I’ve played some good golf this year and winning the New Zealand Open for the first time was obviously a huge moment for me, so I’m looking forward to carrying that momentum into the BMW Australian PGA Championship.

“The tournament has a great history and there’s always a strong field, so it will be a great way to finish the year and hopefully I can put myself in contention.”

Hillier finished equal fifth in last year’s PGA, four shots behind winner David Puig, before going on to finish T6 at the Australian Open.

PGA of Australia CEO Gavin Kirkman said Hillier’s presence would add further international quality to the championship.

“Daniel has established himself as one of the leading golfers from this part of the world, and what he has achieved this year has been outstanding,” Kirkman said.

“To have the reigning New Zealand Open champion and a DP World Tour winner competing in the BMW Australian PGA Championship is fantastic for Australian golf fans.

“Daniel is still only 28 and has already achieved a huge amount in his career, and his performances this year show he is continuing to take his game to another level.

“We’re delighted to welcome him back to the BMW Australian PGA and Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia and look forward to seeing him take on what will be another outstanding field.”

Hillier’s New Zealand Open victory earlier this year was the first by a New Zealander in their national open since 2017. He finished at 22-under at Millbrook Resort to defeat Australian Lucas Herbert by two shots.

The victory helped the Kiwi No.2 break into the world’s top 100 for the first time, adding to a career that already includes his 2023 DP World Tour breakthrough at the British Masters.

The BMW Australian PGA Championship will be played at The Lakes Golf Club from November 26-29, and is co-sanctioned by the Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia and the DP World Tour.

Hillier will join an international line-up that includes Adam Scott, Cam Smith, Lucas Herbert, Elvis Smylie, Cam Davis, Travis Smyth, Corey Conners and Josele Ballester.

The 2026 BMW Australian PGA Championship is supported by the New South Wales Government through Destination NSW.