Kodokan Sensei return to Melbourne after 18 years

Rare opportunity for Australian judoka to train with world-class instructors and apply for Kodokan Dan grades

Melbourne is set to welcome Kodokan instructors for the first time in 18 years, with a three-day seminar scheduled for January 24-26, 2026.

The event marks a significant milestone for Australian judo, offering local practitioners a rare chance to train under instructors from the Kodokan—judo's birthplace in Tokyo, Japan.

Kodokan Dan Grade Applications Now Open

Following expressions of interest published earlier this year, Judo Victoria has announced that eligible judoka who are Judo Australia members, attending the seminar will have the opportunity to apply for a Kodokan Dan Grade.

The grading examination will take place on Monday, January 26, 2026, the final day of the seminar.

Key Dates and Application Process

Interested judoka must act quickly to secure their place:

Expression of Interest deadline: Close of business, Wednesday, November 5, 2025

Final application deadline: Close of business, Sunday, December 7, 2025

Applications must be submitted through the official EOI form and will be assessed by the Judo Australia Kodokan Committee 

Eligibility and Requirements

Applicants should refer to the National Grading Policy (Version 005 – March 2023), specifically Appendix G on page 107, for detailed eligibility requirements and grading criteria.

Additionally, lifetime Kodokan membership is available for participants at a current cost of 8,000 Yen (approximately AUD $85).

A Historic Opportunity

The return of Kodokan instructors to Melbourne represents a significant event in Australian judo history. The Kodokan Institute, founded by judo creator Jigoro Kano in 1882, remains the global headquarters of the sport and the ultimate authority on judo technique and tradition.

Training under Kodokan-certified instructors provides Australian judoka with direct connection to judo's authentic roots and highest technical standards.

How to Apply

Expression of Interest form:https://www.jotform.com/build/251058496228059

Enquiries:KodokanMelb2026@gmail.com

Required documents:

• Kodokan Dan Grade Application Form
• Supporting documentation as per National Grading Policy requirements

Judo Australia members are encouraged to act promptly, as this opportunity is unlikely to be repeated in the near future.

For more information about the seminar and grading requirements, contact the organising committee at the email address above.