History & Course Overview
Established in 1920, Commonwealth Golf Club is celebrated for its magnificent tree‑lined fairways, strategic bunkering, and subtle, sloping greens that reward precision and thoughtful shot‑making. The course was originally designed by Club Captain Charles Lane, who drew inspiration from legendary course architects Alister MacKenzie and Harry Colt.
Guided by the principles of strategic interest and visual charm, Lane’s vision shaped a layout where bunkers and hazards encourage intelligent decision‑making. In the mid‑1930s, administrator Sloan Morpeth redesigned all 18 greens, ensuring that no two greens shared the same shape or design — a distinctive feature that still defines Commonwealth today.
Located in South Oakleigh within Melbourne’s iconic Sandbelt region, the course remains true to its architectural pedigree and continues to challenge golfers of all levels with its classic Sandbelt character, exceptional turf quality, and beautifully crafted green complexes.
Commonwealth Golf Club features in several of our curated Melbourne Sandbelt golf journeys, including the Melbourne and the Jewels of the Sandbelt itinerary, Melbourne like a Local itinerary, and the Melbourne Sandbelt Extended Stay itinerary — each offering a unique way to experience this classic championship course alongside other iconic Sandbelt venues.
Services & Features
Commonwealth Golf Club offers a premium range of services designed to enhance both the playing experience and visitor comfort. Guests can enjoy fifteen well‑appointed twin‑share accommodation rooms, providing convenient on‑site lodging ideal for golf retreats and extended stays.
Players have full access to the Members’ Lounge and catering facilities, where they can relax, unwind, and enjoy high‑quality food and beverage options in an elegant and welcoming environment.
The club also offers tailored Stay & Play packages, allowing visitors to combine luxury accommodation with an unforgettable round of Sandbelt golf. Whether you’re visiting as an individual, a group, or part of a corporate retreat, these packages are designed to deliver a seamless and memorable experience.
This course is also included in the Melbourne Sandbelt Plus a Day Trip itinerary, combining world-class golf with a broader Melbourne travel experience.
Golf Digest Ranking
Ranked 27th in Australia, Commonwealth Golf Club is recognised as one of the country’s premier Sandbelt championship courses.
Highlights
Location & Access
Contact Information
Signature Holes
16th Hole — Par 4
(346m Men / 306m Women)
The signature hole of Commonwealth — a brilliant risk‑versus‑reward par 4. From the elevated tee, longer hitters may attempt the heroic carry over the lake to leave a short approach and a genuine birdie opportunity. A conservative line to the right leaves a more demanding angle into a sloped green protected by a right‑hand bunker and steep run‑off areas. Accuracy is essential; misjudgment can quickly turn opportunity into trouble.
18th Hole — Par 4
(381m Men / 330m Women)
A spectacular finishing hole played beneath the elevated clubhouse. A drive favouring the left side of the fairway provides the best angle for the approach. Tee shots drifting right must carry a deep greenside bunker, while a pull left finds punishing rough or fairway traps. A strong, strategic final test worthy of championship play.
9th Hole — Par 3
(121m Men / 108m Women)
A beautifully bunkered short par‑3 requiring precise distance control. The raised green is heavily influenced by wind that may not be felt on the sheltered tee. Pin position dictates club selection: front placements require a soft landing over the bunker, while back‑right pins call for a confident strike. Shots landing near the left edge risk rolling sharply off the green.
Course Information
Slope Rating: 131 (Blue Tees)
| Course | Par | Slope | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blue | 73 | 131 | 6380m |
| White | 73 | 126 | 6000m |
| Red | 73 | 129 | 5400m |
