AJO’s home in Melbourne secured until 2027

The Australian Junior Open continues to grow in quality and popularity and it will now remain in Melbourne through to 2027.

Having found a home at Melbourne Sports & Aquatic Centre since 2023, a partnership with the Victorian Government will see the AJO staged in the Victorian capital for the next three years.

Squash Australia General Manager Events, Tamika Hunt said the deal was an important milestone for one of the country’s biggest annual tournaments.

“We’re really pleased to partner with the Victorian Government to make Melbourne the home of the Australian Junior Open through to 2027,” said Hunt.

“In the last year and a half we’ve hosted two AJOs as well as the World Junior Championships in Melbourne and all three events have been outstanding both on and off the court.

“The quality of the venue at MSAC and the accommodation offerings we’re able to present have seen the number of international entries for this tournament grow over the last two years and I’m sure 2025 and the years beyond will be even bigger and better.

“We also understand the importance of certainty in tournament locations and dates for players and their families and this announcement allows them the opportunity to start putting plans in place for 2025 and beyond.” 

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said it’s fantastic to lock in the Australian Junior Open here in Victoria until 2027.

“Melbourne has become the home of the Australian Junior Open and our world-class Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre is the perfect venue to host this fantastic event over the next three years.

“We can’t wait to welcome Australia’s best junior squash players back to Melbourne in 2025.”

Dennis Makaling, Squash & Racquetball Victoria General Manger, said he is proud the tournament is back in Melbourne showcasing the best young players in the region. 

“Squash & Racquetball Victoria is very excited to have our state host the Australian Junior Open for the next three years at MSAC,” he said. “This opportunity presents the highest level of junior squash to be presented to our state and national junior players from a competitive experience, as well as from a spectator perspective.”

The 2025 Australian Junior Open will be held on 13-17 April with entries now open.

The following two years will be staged on 12-16 April 2026 (followed by the Oceania Junior Championships 17-19 April) and 8-12 April 2027.