For more than 25 years, Australian golfers have relied on GOLF Link to manage handicaps, submit scores, and compete fairly. But from October 2, 2025, that system is being switched off forever and replaced by Golf Australia CONNECT (GA CONNECT) — a brand-new digital platform designed to make getting and maintaining a golf handicap easier than ever.
Whether you’re brand new to the game and want to know how to get a golf handicap in Australia, or you’re already playing competitions every week, here’s everything you need to know about the changes.
What Is GA CONNECT?
Golf Australia CONNECT is the new national platform for handicapping, score submissions, and golfer services. It’s replacing the outdated GOLF Link system to give golfers:
- A brand-new Golf Australia app (iPhone & Android).
- A modern golfer portal at golf.com.au.
- A permanent Golf ID number (replacing GOLF Link numbers).
- Digital membership cards instead of plastic cards.
👉 Learn more directly from Golf Australia.
What’s Changing with Handicaps?
From October 2, every golfer’s GA Handicap will be recalculated using updated rules aligned with the World Handicap System.
The goal? To make handicaps fairer, more consistent, and more reflective of actual playing conditions.
Here are the key updates:
- Consistency Factor → A new adjustment in Daily Handicap calculations, supporting fairer competition and equity for women and girls.
- 9-Hole Rounds → A revised formula to make shorter rounds more accurate.
- Expected Scores → New modelling for holes not played, replacing “net par.”
- Daily Difficulty (PCC) → A refined method, back-calculated to January 2023.
Most golfers will see a small change to their handicap (less than 0.5 strokes). Some may notice a bigger adjustment depending on their scoring history.
What Does This Mean for Getting a Golf Handicap?
If you’re new to golf and wondering how to get a golf handicap, the process remains straightforward:
- Join a club or an approved golf community (like The Golf Collective).
- Submit your first 54 holes of scores (a mix of 9- and 18-hole rounds).
- Once processed, you’ll receive your official GA Handicap, linked to your permanent Golf ID.
👉 If you’ve never had a handicap before, your Golf ID will be created under a new numbering system (no longer tied to your home club).
Why Handicaps Matter
A golf handicap is the great equaliser of the game. It allows players of all abilities to compete fairly against each other, whether in social rounds or club competitions.
With GA CONNECT, handicaps will be more reliable than ever — meaning every golfer, from beginners to low markers, can enjoy fair competition.
Key Dates You Should Know
- Sept 28, 10pm AEST → GOLF Link shuts down permanently.
- Sept 29 – Oct 1 → Handicap services offline (view-only mode).
- Oct 1 → Transition day — expect patchy services.
- Oct 2 → GA CONNECT launches. New app available. Handicaps recalculated.
- Oct 2–10 → Clubs progressively come online.
What You Need to Do
- ✅ Make sure your email address is correct with your club before Sept 28.
- ✅ Download the new Golf Australia app on October 2.
- ✅ Log in with your Golf ID (your old GOLF Link number) and verify your account at golf.com.au.
That’s it — the system does the rest.
Final Word
The shift from GOLF Link to GA CONNECT is the biggest change to Australian golf handicapping in decades. For golfers, it means a smoother digital experience, fairer handicaps, and easier ways to track your game.
If you’ve been thinking about getting your first handicap, now’s the perfect time. With GA CONNECT, your Golf ID will stay with you for life, and you’ll have all the tools you need to improve, compete, and connect with other golfers.
👉 Ready to get started? Learn more about joining and getting your first handicap with The Golf Collective today.
