Golf is more popular than ever across Australia, drawing players of all ages and skill levels to courses and driving ranges from Perth to the Gold Coast. But with powerful modern clubs, advanced ball technology and denser surrounding development, the challenges of keeping golf environments safe have grown, too.
In 2026, golf facility managers are thinking differently about risk and compliance — and safety netting has become a core part of that conversation
Golf safety netting has one job — to stop stray balls from becoming a real-world hazard. And with today’s stronger players, faster swing speeds and busier surroundings, even a single wayward shot can cause major problems. The risks are no longer hypothetical. A mis-hit drive can result in:
A recent incident in South Australia highlighted just how quickly things can go wrong: a golf ball smashed through a moving car’s windscreen and deflected toward a passing motorcyclist — a split-second event that could have ended in tragedy. As a result, local residents are now pushing for protective netting along the surrounding roadway.
Events like this underscore a simple reality: public safety expectations are rising. Golf clubs and driving ranges can’t rely on outdated barriers or assumptions. Properly engineered netting is no longer a “nice to have” — it’s an essential safeguard for facilities that want to stay compliant, minimise liability and protect their community.
While Australia doesn’t have a single nationwide regulation governing golf safety netting, the expectations around risk management are becoming far more rigorous. Councils, insurers and professional risk assessors now want clear evidence that golf facilities are actively managing the dangers associated with errant golf balls. In practice, this means demonstrating:
For clubs, the stakes are high. Poor record-keeping or an outdated approach to risk can weaken insurance claims and increase liability exposure — especially if an incident occurs. Even straightforward documentation, like a risk register or a scheduled site inspection report, can provide crucial protection in the event of a dispute.
The message is clear: the industry standard has shifted, and golf facilities are now expected to show that their safety measures are intentional, maintained and backed by proper documentation.
Modern golf has changed dramatically. New club designs, advanced shaft technology and high-performance golf balls now produce faster ball speeds and longer flight distances than ever before. As a result, many of the traditional barriers and hedges that once provided adequate protection are no longer capable of containing today’s shots.
Some facilities, such as Wembley Golf Course, have already begun reassessing their perimeter netting to ensure it can withstand modern ball trajectories. This kind of proactive review is rapidly becoming the norm, as clubs recognise that outdated infrastructure may no longer meet current safety expectations.
These trends reflect a broader global shift in how the sport approaches performance and risk. The takeaway for course operators is simple: solutions that worked years ago may not keep pace with the demands of today’s game. Regular evaluation and modern, engineered netting systems are now essential for staying ahead of emerging hazards.
As we move into 2026, upgrading golf safety netting is no longer about simply putting up a higher fence. Modern expectations demand smarter, engineered solutions that address real risks and future-proof your facility. Here’s what that looks like:
Every golf course or driving range has its own ball flight characteristics, surrounding land use and exposure points. A tailored assessment — often supported by trajectory analysis — ensures the netting design matches your site’s specific risks rather than relying on one-size-fits-all solutions.
High-quality systems, such as those provided by CCI Safety Fencing, use advanced materials like Dyneema® and multifilament polyester. These deliver exceptional strength and durability while maintaining a low visual profile, even at heights exceeding 30 metres. It’s engineered performance designed to last.
Smartly designed safety netting boosts player confidence, enhances range usability and ensures that nearby homes, roads and public spaces remain protected. Best of all, modern netting systems achieve this without interrupting the natural look and feel of the course.
Upgrading your safety netting in 2026 isn’t just about ticking a compliance box — it’s about protecting your people, your community and the reputation of your facility. As expectations rise and risks evolve, having a robust, professionally engineered netting system has never been more important.
For more than 30 years, CCI Safety Fencing has been Australia’s trusted specialist in golf safety netting. We combine advanced materials with proven engineering to deliver systems that not only meet today’s standards but are built to handle tomorrow’s demands.
Whether you manage a high-traffic driving range or operate a public golf course seeking to reduce risk and strengthen compliance, our team can design, manufacture and install a tailored solution that fits your site perfectly.
Get in touch with us today to discuss how a customised safety netting upgrade can strengthen your facility’s safety, performance and peace of mind well into 2026 and beyond.
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