What is a Golf Handicap?

An Australian Golf Handicap is a numerical figure which is a reflection of an amateur golfer’s playing ability. Handicaps allow golfers of all physical golf abilities to be able to compete against one another.

Australian Golf Handicaps are calculated and allotted in accordance with the Australian Handicapping System and in terms of the Calculated Course Rating (CCR) as described in the Australian Course Rating System.

The Australian Golf Handicapping System was developed and is administered by Golf Australia. The system has been adopted throughout Australia to ensure uniformity in golf handicaps.

Golf Australia has established a centralised, computer-based, national system to manage handicapping, known as GOLFLink. As this system is extended, all golfers will be issued with a personal identification swipe card to be used when entering club and other competitions and updating handicaps.

Within Victoria, the VGA is responsible for golf course ratings on which the handicapping system is based and for enquiries relating to handicapping.