Australia boasts some of the most iconic and challenging racing circuits in the world. From high-speed straights to technical corners, these tracks test the skill, precision, and courage of drivers across a variety of motorsport disciplines. Whether you’re a die-hard motorsport fan or new to the scene, these circuits are must-know landmarks in the world of racing.
Here are the top five Australian racing circuits every motorsport fan should know:
1. Mount Panorama Circuit (Bathurst)
Location: Bathurst, New South Wales
Length: 6.213 km (3.86 mi)
Famous For: Bathurst 1000, 12 Hours of Bathurst
Arguably the most iconic racing circuit in Australia—and one of the most famous in the world—Mount Panorama is a track that every motorsport fan knows and reveres. It’s home to the legendary Bathurst 1000 and the 12 Hours of Bathurst, two of the biggest endurance races in Australian motorsport.
What makes Mount Panorama unique is its combination of fast straights, sharp corners, and significant elevation changes. The climb up and descent down Mount Panorama is both breathtaking and perilous, with drivers navigating narrow sections of track lined with unforgiving walls. Conrod Straight is one of the longest straights in motorsport, where cars reach speeds over 300 km/h (186 mph), while the tight bends of the Dipper and Forrest’s Elbow push drivers to their limits. The sheer challenge of Bathurst makes it a true test of driver skill and bravery.
2. Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit
Location: Phillip Island, Victoria
Length: 4.445 km (2.76 mi)
Famous For: Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, Supercars Championship
Nestled along the stunning coastline of Victoria, the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit is renowned for its sweeping, fast corners and picturesque views. Although it’s most famous for hosting the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, the circuit is also a staple in the Supercars Championship and is beloved by both two-wheel and four-wheel motorsport fans.
Phillip Island’s fast layout challenges drivers to maintain speed through long, flowing corners, making it a track that rewards smooth driving and high-speed precision. Corners like Turn 1 and Lukey Heights demand a perfect balance of aggression and control, and the coastal winds can add an extra element of unpredictability, especially in wet conditions. With its high speeds and dramatic setting, Phillip Island is a fan-favorite that delivers exciting racing across multiple disciplines.
3. Sydney Motorsport Park (Eastern Creek)
Location: Eastern Creek, New South Wales
Length: 4.5 km (2.8 mi)
Famous For: Supercars Championship, Sydney 500
Sydney Motorsport Park, also known as Eastern Creek, is one of Australia’s premier racing circuits. Offering a blend of technical corners and high-speed straights, this track is a favorite among drivers and teams for its versatility. Its location near Sydney makes it a key venue for major motorsport events, including the Supercars Championship and the Sydney 500.
What sets Sydney Motorsport Park apart is its variety of track layouts. The circuit can be configured in multiple ways, allowing for different racing experiences and challenges. It’s also one of the few tracks in Australia equipped for night racing, adding an extra layer of excitement for fans. Turn 1 is a high-speed corner that requires maximum commitment, while the tight Hairpin at Turn 2 tests a driver’s braking precision. Whether in daylight or under the lights, this track consistently produces thrilling racing.
4. The Bend Motorsport Park
Location: Tailem Bend, South Australia
Length: 7.77 km (4.83 mi)
Famous For: Supercars Championship, Asian Le Mans Series
The Bend Motorsport Park is one of the newest additions to Australia’s motorsport scene, but it has quickly become one of the country’s top racing venues. Opened in 2018, The Bend features multiple track configurations, with its International Circuit being the second-longest permanent race track in the world.
The Bend’s modern design offers a blend of fast straights and technical sections, testing both speed and precision. It has become a key stop on the Supercars Championship calendar and has also hosted events like the Asian Le Mans Series. The track’s versatility allows it to cater to a wide range of motorsport categories, from GT racing to endurance events. With state-of-the-art facilities and a challenging layout, The Bend is fast becoming a go-to destination for Australian motorsport.
5. Sandown Raceway
Location: Springvale, Victoria
Length: 3.1 km (1.9 mi)
Famous For: Sandown 500, Historic Racing
Sandown Raceway may not be the longest or most complex circuit in Australia, but it holds a special place in the hearts of motorsport fans. Located just outside of Melbourne, Sandown has been a staple of Australian racing for decades, hosting events like the Sandown 500 and numerous historic racing weekends.
Sandown’s layout is relatively simple, with two long straights and a series of tight corners that demand precision braking and acceleration. The combination of high-speed straights and slow corners makes Sandown a great track for overtaking, and fans often witness thrilling battles for position. Its rich history and close proximity to Melbourne ensure that Sandown remains an integral part of Australia’s motorsport landscape.
Why These Tracks Matter
Each of these circuits offers something unique, whether it’s the technical challenge of Bathurst, the high-speed thrills of Phillip Island, or the modern facilities of The Bend. Together, they form the backbone of Australia’s vibrant motorsport culture, hosting everything from grassroots racing to international events. For motorsport fans, these tracks represent more than just asphalt and turns—they’re arenas where legends are made, races are won, and the spirit of competition thrives.
Whether you’re a fan of GT racing, Supercars, or motorbikes, these iconic Australian circuits deliver unforgettable experiences and continue to be the backdrop for some of the greatest moments in motorsport.
As Australia’s motorsport scene continues to grow, these tracks will remain essential to the future of racing in the country. If you haven’t visited one of these iconic circuits yet, make sure to add them to your motorsport bucket list!
