Everything you need to know about the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix

There were record crowds in Melbourne for last year's Australian Grand Prix. (Reuters: Loren Elliott)

Formula 1 is back on Australian soil as Melbourne hosts the third race of the year. 

After an absence in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, F1 made its return Down Under last season in front of massive crowds.

The Red Bulls have been dominant in the opening races this season, while Aston Martin have been the big improvers.

Listen as ABC Sport Daily dives into the Daniel Ricciardo-shaped hole at this weekend's F1 Grand Prix in Melbourne

Here is everything you need to know ahead of round 3 for the 2023 F1 championship.

When is the F1 Australian Grand Prix?

The Australian Grand Prix will be held on Sunday, starting at 3pm AEST.

Qualifying will happen on Saturday, at 4pm AEDT (Saturday is the final day of daylight savings).

For the first time, Formula 2 and Formula 3 will race at Albert Park, with races held Saturday and Sunday.

You can watch the Australian Grand Prix on on Network 10, or through Foxtel and Kayo.

Where is the Australian Grand Prix?

Albert Park is just south of the Melbourne CBD and is a stone's throw from St Kilda Beach.

It is a street track that has hosted the Australian Grand Prix 25 times. 

The circuit makes its way around Albert Park Lake, with Port Phillip Bay and the Melbourne skyline providing a beautiful backdrop to this iconic track. 

What do I need to know about the track?

Illustration of the Albert Park F1 circuit. (F1)

This is the second race that will be held since the track went through an upgrade during the pandemic.

The previous track layout had a chicane after turn 9, before the drivers headed down the back of the course. 

With a clear passage now along Albert Park Lake between turns 9 and 10, there is a greater chance for overtaking. 

What happened last year?

Charles Leclerc continued his excellent start to the season with another victory, extending his lead at the top of the standings. 

Max Verstappen suffered his second retirement in the opening three races of the year, ending the weekend more than 40 points behind Leclerc. 

Daniel Ricciardo was able to delight his home fans with a sixth-place finish for McLaren.

Fast facts

• First grand prix — 1996
• Number of laps — 58
• Lap distance — 5.278km
• Race distance — 306.124km
• Fastest lap — 1:20.260 Charles Leclerc (2022)