It is organised by Motorcycling Australia (MA) and is the oldest continuously running national speedway championship in the world, having been run since 1926 with the exception of 1942-1945 when racing was suspended during World War II and 1955-1961 when the championship was not held.

Championships were run over anywhere from 2 to 6 laps and/or over 2 miles, often depending on the length of the track used.

Legendary Danish rider Ole Olsen and Australia's own Jason Crump are the only riders who have won the championship while being the reigning Speedway World Champion.

His win was controversial as many of the riders at the meeting protested his eligibility because of his nationality.

However, with Olsen available to ride the promoters of the speedway insisted on his inclusion knowing that he would draw a larger crowd.