Getting Started

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Australian Karting: Fast, Fun, and Family-Friendly! 

Karting in Australia is more than just a sport – it’s an exciting adventure for the whole family! Managed by Karting Australia, this sport is all about speed, fun, and friendly competition. It’s where racing dreams take off and future champions are born. Pretty much every motor racing champion started in a kart. 

Think of a sport where your age doesn’t matter. Kids as young as 6 can start feeling the rush of the race track, and the excitement keeps growing, whether you’re 7 or 70!

Australian karting is all about “RACING FOR EVERYONE,” making it a super cool activity for people of all ages. 

The real action starts at the club level, the beating heart of Australian karting. This is where the magic of racing comes alive. Some racers love the buzz of local and regional races, while others aim for the stars at the  Australian Kart Championship – the biggest karting event down under! 

Karting in Australia isn’t just about fast karts and racing; it’s about families having an awesome time together. Imagine weekends spent at the track, with parents cheering and kids racing maybe even against their brothers or sisters. It’s a place where families can hang out, celebrate with cousins, or just enjoy a day with likeminded people at the Track. Karting brings everyone closer, creating memories that stick around forever.  

Everyone’s welcome in Australian karting. It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or a pro, there’s something for everyone. You can race against your family, beat your personal best, or just enjoy the thrill of the ride. It’s a super fun way to bond and share a love for a sport that’s both thrilling and unifying. 

But there’s more to karting than just racing. It’s also a great way to learn about road safety and driving skills. Karting Clubs across Australia teach important lessons about being safe on the road, showing how this sport helps the whole community. 

Karting Australia, the sport’s guardian since 1966, is all about making sure karting is safe and fun for everyone. With a professional team, 64 clubs across Australia, and over 6,500 racers, they’re dedicated to keeping the sport awesome for everyone involved. 

GIRLS RACE TOO!

Karting Australia is all about breaking barriers, and our commitment to the principle of ‘Girls Race Too’ is at the heart of it all. We believe in inclusivity and equal opportunities for everyone, regardless of gender. Imagine yourself not just watching, but tearing up the track as a fearless driver, or calling the shots as a race official – because you absolutely can!

We’re creating an environment that nurtures YOUR talent. From drivers to race officials – the karting world is waiting for YOU.

By actively promoting and encouraging girls and women to participate and race regularly, we’re not just closing the gender participation gap; we’re paving the way for a revolution in motorsport. Karting is not just the starting point; it’s the key to overcoming stereotypes that have lingered for decades.

So, gear up and get ready to show the world that motorsport is for EVERYONE.

Let’s break the mold and race toward a future where ‘Girls Race Too’ is not just a slogan, but a reality! 🏎️💨 #GirlsRaceToo

WHERE TO START?

“RACING STARTS HERE” – it’s not just a catchy phrase; it’s what Australian karting is all about. Many of today’s big names in motorsport started with karting. It’s a key part of Australia’s sporting culture, teaching life skills and fuelling the passion for racing. 

Karting in Australia is more than just a hobby. It’s a tradition, a training ground for future stars, and a place where legends begin. With Karting Australia’s commitment, this sport is set to be a highlight for many more years.

So, why not join in? Hit the tracks and be part of this amazing journey! 

Getting Started in Karting – Your easy Guide! 

Step 1: Join a Club and Get Your Licence 

First things first, you’ll need to join a Karting Australia Affiliated Club. This lets you use the club’s track for practice and join in on all the fun stuff like club championships, social events, and more. 

• Find a club near you by checking out the Club Finder here. 
• Join your chosen club online via KOMP (you can sign up for an account here).
• Good news: getting your club membership and licence is all done in one go on the same platform! 

Step 2: Buy a Kart 

You’ll need your own kart, of course! There are kart shops all over Australia. 

• Your club can help you find a good shop that’s newbie-friendly and offers great value. 
• You can choose from new or second-hand karts.  
• A tip: It’s better to buy from a shop rather than online places like eBay or Gumtree. You want to make sure your kart is in top shape and right for your age and racing class. 
• Check out this video on what to look for when buying a second hand kart.

Step 3: Gear Up for Safety 

Safety is super important in karting. Most kart shops have the gear you need. 

• You’ll need a full-face helmet, a race suit, racing boots, and gloves. 
• Some optional safety stuff includes padded rib vests and neck braces. 
• Motorsport race gear shops also have karting gear, so check them out too. 
• You can watch the Safety Equipment Video here.

Step 4: Ask Questions and Make Friends 

Karting is all about fun and family vibes. Everyone’s super friendly and happy to help newbies.  

• Don’t be shy to ask lots of questions at your kart club, state association, or local kart shop. 
• It’s a great idea to go to the track with someone you know the first time. They can help answer your questions. 
• Feel free to chat with other racers at the track. Karting buddies often become lifelong friends!