The event was last held in 1995 under the name Australian Masters, where Anthony Hamilton defeated Chris Small 8–6 in the final.

However, Hamilton withdrew from the tournament in the qualifying rounds citing personal reasons and therefore did not compete to defend his title.

[1] Stuart Bingham won the first ranking title of his career by defeating Mark Williams 9–8 in the final.

[4][5][6] These matches took place between 26 and 30 June 2011 at the World Snooker Academy in Sheffield, England.

[3][7][8] David Gilbert was the only player to go through all four rounds of qualifying to make it to the main stage.