About

About Darts Australia

Darts Australia is the recognised governing body for darts in the nation, dedicated to promoting and developing the sport across all levels—from grassroots to elite international competition. As a proud founding member of the World Darts Federation (WDF), established in 1976, we actively contribute to the growth of darts on a global scale. The WDF unites over 250,000 players from 60 nations across six continents, working tirelessly to secure international recognition for darts as a major sport.

The WDF operates as a non-political, non-racial, and non-profit organisation, aiming to maintain the highest standards of presentation, organisation, and fairness in darts. With English as its official language and the US dollar as its official currency, the WDF exemplifies professionalism and inclusivity. Darts Australia proudly upholds these values while championing the sport’s legacy and future in our region.

International Impact and Legacy

Hosting Prestigious Events

Darts Australia has demonstrated its commitment to excellence in event organisation by hosting three World Cup events:

• 1985: Brisbane
• 1997: Perth
• 2005: Perth

The WDF World Cup is one of the most prestigious events on the international darts calendar, featuring elite competitors from over 40 nations. These tournaments include men's, women's, boys', and girls' singles, pairs, and team events, culminating in the ultimate crowning of the winning nation. These events have drawn nearly 1,000 competitors, officials, and support staff, showcasing Australia's ability to deliver world-class tournaments.

Australian World Champions

Australia has produced numerous world champions, a testament to the depth of talent and dedication within our darts community. These achievements include:

• 1976: Kevin White & George Foster – World Pairs Champions
• 1991: Wayne Weening & Keith Sullivan – World Pairs Champions
• 1997: Graham Hunt – World Masters Champion
• 1999: Harrena Williamson & Beau Anderson – World Youth Teams Champions
• 2001: Venus Johnson – World Girls Youth Champion
• 2002: Tony David – World Professional Champion
• 2003: Kathleen Logue & Kyle Anderson – World Youth Teams Champions
• 2009: Geoff Kime & Anthony Fleet – World Pairs Champions
• 2013: Jamie Rundle – WDF Junior Singles Champion
• 2013: Jamie Rundle & Tiarna Smith – Youth Teams Champions
• 2017: Australian Men's Team – World Cup Champions (Rod Bessell, Justin Thompson, Raymond Smith, Peter Machin, Andrew Townes)

Australian Darts Championships: A Prestigious Tradition

The Australian Darts Championships, held annually since 1980, are the pinnacle of competitive darts in the nation. These championships evolved from the Australasian Championships, first held in 1964, when Australia and New Zealand competed as a unified region. The event transitioned to a purely Australian competition in 1980, reflecting the growth of darts in both nations.

Early History: The Australasian Championships

The Australasian Championships were founded following a collaborative effort between Australian states and New Zealand. The first event was held in 1964 at the Burwood RSL Club, with subsequent championships hosted in different states and dominions each year. This continued until 1979, when New Zealand began competing independently at the World Cup level.

Innovations and Achievements

Pioneering Drug Policies

In 1999, Darts Australia became the first member country of the WDF to introduce a Doping Policy, developed in collaboration with the Australian Sports Drug Agency. Drug testing was implemented at the 2000 Australian Championships, ensuring a level playing field for all competitors. The WDF adopted this policy in 2002, setting a new global standard for integrity in darts.

Coaching Programs and Development

Darts Australia was also the first WDF member to introduce a structured Coaching Program, which includes comprehensive manuals for Level 0, Level 1, and Level 2 certifications. These programs are crucial for developing players' skills and understanding of the game. Presented at the WDF World Cup in Perth, the program has inspired other nations to adopt similar frameworks.

Youth Development Initiatives

Youth development is a cornerstone of Darts Australia's mission. Each January, we host the Junior Darts Championships, a prestigious event that brings together the best young players from across the country. The Australian Youth Masters is a highlight of this competition, with one boy and one girl selected annually to represent Australia at the World Youth Masters, held alongside the WDF World Cup.

In addition, our Darts in Schools program, introduced in Queensland and Western Australia, uses darts as an educational tool to improve numeracy, hand-eye coordination, and social skills. Certified coaches, working closely with teachers, ensure these programs are both fun and impactful.

Governance and Membership

Darts Australia consists of eight active members representing the states and territories of Australia, each contributing to the development of darts at both grassroots and elite levels. The Northern Territory joined under the national charter in 2016, further expanding our reach.

In addition to affiliate memberships, Darts Australia honors individuals through the designation of Life Members. This prestigious recognition is awarded to those who have provided long and meritorious service to the promotion and development of darts in Australia. The election of a Life Member requires the agreement of seventy-five percent of the members attending the annual general meeting.

Darts Australia also maintains a Hall of Fame, celebrating players and administrators who have significantly impacted the sport. Inductees include notable figures such as Russell Stewart, Peter McMenamin, and Kevin White, among others.

Each year, Darts Australia selects representative players to compete in prestigious international events, including the World Cup, Asia Pacific Cup, and Winmau World Masters. These selections are based on performance and contributions to the sport, ensuring that Australia is represented by top-tier talent on the global stage.

Annual Competitions and Pathways

Darts Australia hosts and oversees multiple high-profile competitions throughout the year:

• Australian Darts Championships: A national event where states and territories compete for glory.
• Junior Darts Championships: Developing the next generation of talent.
• Australian Youth Master: A key pathway for young players to international competition.

Representative teams are chosen from these events, ensuring that Australia's finest players have opportunities to compete on the world stage.

A Vision for the Future

Darts Australia remains committed to its mission of promoting, developing, and celebrating the sport of darts. From fostering young talent through grassroots initiatives to ensuring integrity and innovation at the elite level, we aim to inspire a love for darts in every corner of the country.

Together, we strive to uphold Australia's proud legacy in darts while building a brighter, more inclusive future for the sport.