The maximum men’s golf handicap has now increased to 36.4 under changes announced by Golf Australia. A number of other measures come into force as of September 1, including new provisions cracking down on players suspected of “manipulating” their handicaps.

Golf Australia says one of the positive outcomes of the new handicap ceiling will be that players whose golf diminishes over time due to age will be better encouraged to remain actively engaged in competitions and club life.

Beginners will also be better encouraged to become actively engaged in golf and club life and the new handicap level is also in line with US and European systems.

Another new provision will help players who may be recovering from injuries or illness and will allow for an immediate manual adjustment of their handicaps.

For full details of the the new provisions see our previous story of the announcement:

Men’s handicap increase…but golf cheats beware