Devonport to host national squash championships

Tasmania will host another major national sporting event, with the 2026 Australian Junior Squash Championships to be held in Devonport.

Minister for Sport, Nick Duigan, said the competition will encourage participation, inspire young athletes and deliver positive outcomes for the regional community.

“The 2026 Australian Junior Squash Championships are a cornerstone event in Australia’s junior development pathway,” Minister Duigan said.

“Many of Australia’s most successful international players have participated, including Michelle Martin, David Palmer, Sarah Fitz-Gerald, Rachael Grinham and Chris Dittmar.

“The championships will attract hundreds of players, officials and families from across Australia, and deliver strong economic and tourism benefits for Devonport and the broader North West.

“The Tasmanian Government has helped secure the 2026 Championships with an $80,000 investment.”

Squash Australia General Manager for Partnerships & Events, Tamika Hunt, said the organisation was excited to bring the Championships to Tasmania.

“We’re thrilled to be partnering with the Tasmanian Government to bring the Australian Junior Squash Championships to Devonport this year and to have such fantastic support from the State Government for our premier national junior event,” Ms Hunt said.

“The Championships are a vital part of our junior pathway, giving young athletes the chance to test themselves against their competitors from across the country in individual competition before representing their state or territory in the teams event.

“Hosting the event in Devonport not only provides a fantastic experience for players and their families, with numerous tourism activities on offer pre and post event, but also supports the growth of squash in Tasmania and highlights the strength of regional centres in delivering national events.”

Minister Duigan said the Tasmanian Government is delivering for Tasmanians by backing in junior sport, regional events and community participation.

“Squash is a popular sport in our State, and the Tasmanian Government is a proud supporter of Squash Tasmania’s development and education programs,” Minister Duigan said.

“National events like this not only strengthen Tasmania’s sporting reputation – they also highlight the important role that regional centres such as Devonport play in hosting national competitions.”

The 2026 Australian Junior Squash Championships will run from 27 September to 3 October 2026 at the Devonport Squash Centre.