The Gold Star, also known as the Australian Drivers’ Championship, was established in 1957 and last awarded in 2014 to Simon Hodge for his status as Australian Formula 3 Champion.

Tim Macrow and James Winslow, both dual Gold Star winners, will line up in the S5000 debut at Albert Park this weekend.

Motorsport Australia President Andrew Papadopoulos said “we are immensely proud to reinstate the Motorsport Australia Gold Star to the S5000 Championship as our premier open-wheel category.”

“The success of S5000 in its first year proved to the Motorsport Australia Board that it is worthy of this significant honour, that has a rich history dating back to 1957.

“The Gold Star is one of the highest honours for any driver to win here in Australia, and when you look at the calibre of names that have won in the past, there is no doubt that Gold Star recipients are clearly some of the best drivers in this country.

Australian Racing Group CEO Matt Baird said “the Gold Star is Motorsport Australia's most prestigious drivers award, and the Australian Racing Group is honoured to have it bestowed on our category.”

"It was always our aim to have S5000 recognised with the Driver's Championship and the Gold Star. It was never a given, so we are proud of the work that has been done to have this new class endorsed with the ultimate driving honour in Australia. To have former world champion Alan Jones suggest that Australia's next Formula 1 champion will come from S5000 is an unbelievable endorsement.

"The Gold Star highlights the talent required to drive these cars, and with the field that we have seen sign up for the first season, we know the champion is going to truly deserve this award.