Australian Chess Championship
The Australian Chess Championship is a tournament organised by the Australian Chess Federation and held every two years. The tournament is largely restricted to Australian chess players, although it is common to allow a small number of strong overseas players to compete. The highest-scoring eligible player (frequently the tournament winner) holds the title of Australian Chess Champion until the next tournament is held. The tournament format is normally a restricted Swiss system, and in case of a tie for first place, a playoff match or tournament is conducted. Since 1971, the Australian Open has been held  in the intervening years. This event is open to all players, regardless of nationality, and the winner holds the title of Australian Open Champion. The Australian Junior Championship and Australian Girls Championship are held annually. The Australian Women's Championship was previously organised as a separate tournament but current regulations award the title of Australian Women's Champion to the highest placed Australian female player in the Australian Open (dependent on a minimum number of female entries). Australian Champions. Prior to 2008, the tournament usually began in late December (after Christmas) and finished in January. Since 2008, the tournament has  usually been held entirely in January. In the table, the year refers to the date the tournament finished. Australian Junior Champions. The Australian Junior Chess Championship is a tournament organised by the Australian Chess Federation and is held every year. It is restricted to junior players under 18 years of age. The Australian Girls Championship is held concurrently. Australian Grand Prix. Since 1989 a system has been in place with points accumulated in different Australian weekend tournaments. The winners have been: