Karting Australia and its various state organisations will restrict interstate competition at some state-level events in 2026.
State Regulations that were published yesterday reveal eligibility requirements to enter State Series have changed. Specifically, only drivers from the host state can compete (plus, in some cases, drivers from specific postcodes outside of that state).
KA say this change is “to better align with the long-term development objectives of the sport”.
“The updated requirements are designed to ensure each State Series remains focused on drivers based within that State, while also supporting the growth and sustainability of State-level competition nationally” the governing body published on its website.
“By encouraging competitors to race more frequently at a local level and prioritise participation in their home State Series, the State Regulations aim to build stronger competition numbers across the country, strengthen the depth and quality of State Series, and provide a clear and consistent pathway of increasing levels of competition from Club, to State, and ultimately to National competition across Australia.
“Interstate drivers continue to be eligible to compete in Club Competition, State Trophy and Cup Competition, ensuring ongoing opportunities for broader participation while maintaining the integrity and intent of State Championship racing.”
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KA also clarified these state regulations are “designed by the State Associations in conjunction with Karting Australia to govern the conduct of State-level karting competitions to complement the National Competition Rules.”
“They provide specific guidance on eligibility, event formats, entry requirements, and operational standards for State Series, State Trophy, and Cup events.”
It appears the announcement has created an immediate backlash from competitors, especially in Victoria, where the popular Golden Power and Country Series have recently enjoyed strong interstate representation.
Further, considering the current state of karting, the question has to be asked: does this present a potential restriction of trade for the professional teams? Some of these teams rely on income generated from selling services to race at state series events.
So far, the 2026 State Regulations have only been published for QLD, SA and VIC with other states expected to follow shortly.
See the links below to read the regulations specific to your situation:
- 2026 Karting Australia (NSW) State Regulations (coming soon)
- 2026 Karting Queensland State Regulations
- 2026 Karting SA State Regulations
- 2026 Karting Victoria State Regulations
- 2026 Karting Tasmania State Regulations (coming soon)
- 2026 Karting WA State Regulations (coming soon)
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Most ridiculous rule ever what happens to SA guys who don’t have a chance to compete at the level of the vic country series now ? KA over reach here
Why try to ruin an excellent state series that has had SA competitors for years before KA even existed
This affects possibly 200 drivers at most , why is it necessary ?? No-one is draining the swamp from one state to the next, certainly no club or state has ever suffered because adjoining states have always been on top of this and plan their calendars not to clash.