Our AO Hacks series returns in the build-up to Australian Open 2026, offering handy tips and tricks to help you elevate your experience at Melbourne Park.
Few sporting events match the atmosphere and offering of the Australian Open.
Whether you’re lining up to see future champions, cheering with your country’s fan squad, soaking up the summer sun with a cold drink, or catching blockbuster night sessions, the AO is more than a Grand Slam – it’s a choose-your-own-adventure experience.
No matter your approach to the AO, there’s a ticket for every fan and every budget.
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Early bird pricing is available until 30th November, so nab your tickets as soon as you can to lock in the best value.
AO TICKET PRICING
The Happy Slam Hour
For thrill-seekers, keep an eye on The Happy Slam Hour – the AO’s flash-sale event where limited tickets drop at seriously discounted prices, a fantastic opportunity nab seats for marquee matches.
It runs for just one hour each week – announced via AO social channels – with surprise ticket types and unpredictable prices. Last year, fans snagged arena seats for as little as $29.
If you don’t mind a little suspense, this is the ultimate blink-and-you-miss-it deal.
All-Day Ground Pass
The All-Day Ground Pass is ideal for tennis fans who love roaming outer courts, chasing a glimpse of the next big thing before they hit the headlines.
In 2025, ground pass holders packed out 1573 Arena for second-round action after Brazilian teen Joao Fonseca put the world on notice with his opening-round upset of Andrey Rublev.
TICKET INFO: Australian Open 2026
History shows this stage is a launchpad: Roger Federer (in 2000), Ash Barty (in 2012) and Naomi Osaka (in 2016) all started their AO journeys on courts away from the glare of the main showcourts’ spotlight.
Beyond matches, an All-Day Grounds Pass gives access to practice courts for photos and autographs, as well as bars, cafes and activation zones across the precinct. Starting from $19, it gets you through the gates from the first ball to the last match under lights.
Night Session Ground Pass
If you can’t get to the tennis until after work, the Night Grounds Pass is the best value.
From 5pm, Melbourne Park shifts gears with DJ sets, food trucks, cold drinks, and crowds gathering in Garden Square and Grand Slam Oval to watch prime-time matches on the big screens.
It’s a relaxed, social way to enjoy world-class tennis under the lights.
Starting from $19, a Night Ground Pass grants evening access to all outside courts and entertainment at the Australian Open.
Opening Week Ground Pass
Get a taste of the AO before it officially begins with a $10 Opening Week ticket.
Watch Next Generation stars battle through qualifying – last year, Fonseca and fourth-round finisher Learner Tien began in the qualifying rounds – and catch behind-the-scenes practice sessions inside Rod Laver Arena (unreserved seating).
There’s also live music, pop-up events, exhibition matches, and family activities boosting that early summer energy.
Week 2 Ground Passes
If you love tennis but aren’t chasing headline names, Week 2 offers top value.
Enjoy doubles, juniors, and wheelchair tennis, along with finals-week buzz on big screens at Grand Slam Oval and Garden Square.
Stars still practice on the outside courts, and with smaller crowds, it’s perfect for getting up close.
Bundle the full Week 2 experience with a 7-Day Grounds Pass for just $99.
AO LIVE
Bigger, louder, and hotter than ever, AO LIVE is the perfect summer soundtrack.
Headliners include The Kid LAROI, Peggy Gou, Reneé Rapp, Spacey Jane, The Veronicas, and SOFI TUKKER, among many more in an incredible music offering.
Ticket prices vary by artist, but for a more casual experience, fans can enjoy free live music throughout Opening Week at AO TOPCOURT.
