Melbourne in March put on its finest face to greet the FIA Formula One World Championship, and Damon Hill took full advantage to score the first of eight victories that saw the Englishman en the season as World Champion for the first time.

Jacques Villeneuve started from pole-position to drive for victory. On his way he had to let pass team mate Damon Hill because of technical problems. Starting lights went off two times after a impressive crash of Britain Martin Brundle. He had no injuries and could even start again.