The NSW Government has confirmed Moore Park Golf Course will be reduced from 18 holes to a reconfigured 12-hole layout from July 1, marking a significant shift in one of Sydney’s most contentious golf and public-space debates.
According to a report by The Daily Telegraph, the revised proposal follows months of backlash from golfers, local residents and sporting groups who opposed plans to dramatically scale back the historic inner-city course.
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Under the updated design, more than half of the existing course footprint at Moore Park South will remain dedicated to golf. The final concept includes a par-45, 12-hole course designed in consultation with Golf NSW and golf-course architect Harley Kruse, replacing the current championship-length, par-72 layout.
The Minns Government had originally proposed converting large sections of the course into a 20-hectare public park, with draft plans featuring only a redesigned nine-hole course and an expanded driving range. The revised 12-hole model is being presented by the government as a compromise between recreational golf and increased public green space in Sydney’s densely populated eastern suburbs.
NSW Planning Minister Paul Scully said the project aimed to deliver broader community access while preserving golf at Moore Park.
“Moore Park South will have something for everyone, whether people want to play sport, enjoy time outdoors, walk the dog or play a round of golf,” Scully said.
The redesigned golf precinct will retain its finish at Golf House and include a 90-bay driving range, putting and chipping greens and an 18-hole mini-golf facility. The government said at least nine holes would remain operational during construction, with the full 12-hole course expected to open in 2027.
Despite the concessions, opposition from sections of the golf community remains strong. Moore Park Golf Club deputy president Jared Kendler said members were disappointed the government had rejected alternative proposals that could have preserved all 18 holes while still creating additional parkland.
“This could be careening towards the worst of worse outcomes unless they start listening to experts on the ground,” Kendler said. “The plan the government put out today does not do anything innovative to maintain access to golf.”
Golf NSW chief executive Stuart Fraser acknowledged the governing body would have preferred to retain the full course but supported the revised design after consultation on the final layout.
“The preference has always been to retain 18 holes; however, this was physically not possible,” Fraser said. “Internationally recognised golf course architect Harley Kruse has, however, configured a 12-hole layout that would be practical and still offer a challenge for golfers of all abilities.”
Construction is expected to begin in July, with broader parkland upgrades scheduled for completion by 2028. Planned additions include bike and pedestrian paths, sporting fields, a nature playground, outdoor fitness areas and an off-leash dog park.
