Melbourne will host the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix in November, to provide more fans with the opportunity to attend the country's most prestigious motor sport event.
The Andrews Labor Government, Formula 1 management and the Australian Grand Prix Corporation have reached agreement on the one-off 21 November date for 2021, acknowledging that the effects of the coronavirus pandemic made the usual season-opening March date unrealistic.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula said the postponement was a sensible decision and would mean more Victorian, as well as potentially interstate and overseas, fans could enjoy the spectacle of a late-season Formula 1 race just over two weeks after the running of the Melbourne Cup.
The operation of the four-day Grand Prix event at Albert Park will be subject to prevailing public health conditions and advice from the Chief Health Officer, with infection prevention and control at the centre of all decisions.
Quarantine and other aspects of the Grand Prix will be considered in due course.
The Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix has been a pillar of Victoria's renowned major events calendar since it was enticed from South Australia in 1996. The latest contract extension agreed with Formula 1 management means that the race will be held at Albert Park until at least 2025.
The Grand Prix takes Melbourne to the world with images beamed to an estimated global audience of 80 million, including in the key markets of China, India and Japan.
As stated by Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula
"This is the right decision and we thank Formula 1 management for their co-operation in setting a new schedule for the 2021 season."
"The Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix is one of the great events in the world and we'll make sure it can be run safely and successfully in November."
"The move means there will be a greater chance of welcoming fans from Victoria, interstate and around the world."
As stated by Australian Grand Prix Corporation chairman Paul Little
"We're very excited to be able to confirm the rescheduling of the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix to 18-21 November 2021. This wouldn't have been possible without the strong support of the Victorian Government and Formula 1."
As stated by Formula 1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali
"It is great news that we have already been able to agree a rescheduled date for the Australian Grand Prix."
"The virus situation remains fluid, but we have the experience from last season with all our partners and promoters to adapt accordingly and safely in 2021."
