Chris O'Neil defeated Betsy Nagelsen in the final, 6–3, 7–6(7–3) to win the women's singles tennis title at the 1978 Australian Open.

O'Neil did not lose a set during the tournament.

Evonne Goolagong was the reigning champion, but she did not compete this year due to injury.

The seeded players are listed below.

Chris O'Neil is the champion; others show the round in which they were eliminated.