Opening Bids Only

There are many versions of bidding systems in Australia, even the Goren Bidding System and the Acol Bidding System, which have evolved over time with the introduction of new and newer bridge concepts. The general consensus is that there is no one definite standard bidding system and the following chart only represents, in approximation only, perhaps the most common version of the opening bids with the most desired requirements.

For additional information, visit the Australian Bridge Federation.

1 :		11-20 high card points		Shows at least a 3-card plus Club suit.
1 :		11-20 high card points		Shows at least a 4-card plus Diamond suit.
1 :		11-20 high card points		Shows at least a 4-card plus Heart suit.
1 :		11-20 high card points		Shows at least a 4-card plus Spade suit.
1 NT:		16-18 high card points		Promises a balanced shape and distribution.
2 :		21 plus high card points		Shows any shape or distribution.
2 :		6-10 high card points		Shows at least a 6 Diamond suit.
2 :		6-10 high card points		Shows at least a 6 Heart suit.
2 :		6-10 high card points		Shows at least a 6 Spade suit.
2 NT:		21-22 high card points		Promises a balanced shape and distribution.

Note: Stayman and transfer bids are employed after a 1 No Trump opening.

If you wish to include this feature, or any other feature, of the game of bridge in your partnership agreement, then please make certain that the concept is understood by both partners. Be aware whether or not the feature is alertable or not and whether an announcement should or must be made. Check with the governing body and/or the bridge district and/or the bridge unit prior to the game to establish the guidelines applied. Please include the particular feature on your convention card in order that your opponents are also aware of this feature during the bidding process, since this information must be made known to them according to the Laws of Duplicate Contract Bridge. We do not always include the procedure regarding Alerts and/or Announcements, since these regulations are changed and revised during time by the governing body. It is our intention only to present the information as concisely and as accurately as possible.