Worrying new research on the state of the golf industry in Australia has found that the majority of golf clubs in the country are now in financial trouble.

Golf clubs in traditional markets, especially the UK and USA, have struggled through the last few years, although the Republic of Ireland had appeared to post the worst economic data as the value of many facilities had plummeted between about 2006 and 2009.

However, new work by Golf Australia details that Australia may be the worst hit country in the world in terms of the golf industry, and that more than one in two golf clubs are suffering some form of financial stress.

“Clubs are now facing a number of challenges where consumers are time-poor and have an increasing number of other recreational pursuit options.

“Therefore it is vital that we lead initiatives to assist clubs and provide opportunities for them to improve their business and adapt in a very competitive sporting market.”

Golf Australia has therefore launched ‘Club Support’, a ‘club knowledge and resource centre’ which has the aim to ‘prove the capability, financial performance and sustainability of all clubs; to ensure that they thrive into the future’. It does this via health checks and benckmarking.

Golf Australia aims to have as many clubs as possible utilising Club Support and sharing case studies.

Wade added: “The resources have been developed through harnessing the knowledge and expertise of the entire golf industry which is very powerful. We are confident that the resources can provide real benefits to any golf club in Australia.”

He added that local golf associations will also be providing dedicated club support personnel who will be available to assist clubs in improving their operations.

Stephen Pitt, Golf Australia’s chief executive, said the development of the portal was important for the health of the game.

“Club health is a critical part of Golf Australia’s planning and also of our member states. For the good ofAustralian golf we need to help the clubs through the challenges that are confronting them. Whatever we can do in terms of governance and with the business of running golf clubs is very important.’’

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