The women's field hockey tournament at the 1996 Summer Olympics was the 5th edition of the field hockey event for women at the Summer Olympic Games.

It was held over a thirteen-day period beginning on 20 July, and culminating with the medal finals on 1 August.

Australia won the gold medal for the second time after defeating Korea 3–1 in the final.

The Netherlands won the bronze medal by defeating Great Britain 4–3 in the final on penalty strokes after a 0–0 draw.

[1] The previous Olympic and World champions and the host nation received an automatic berth.