World No 1 Luke Donald was on Wednesday confirmed for the Australian Masters but former champion Tiger Woods has decided to give it a miss.

The tournament will be held from Dec 15-18 at Victoria Golf Club, later than last year after losing its traditional November time-slot.

Along with Donald, fellow Englishman Ian Poulter, the world No 14, has committed to the event, as has Australia's Stuart Appleby, the defending champion.

But Woods, who won the tournament in 2009 and was again a major drawcard last year, will be absent.

"I have never played in Australia but I have heard so many great things about the sandbelt courses, the people there, and the country's culture. I am really looking forward to the trip and the experience," said Donald.

David Rollo, vice-president of promoter IMG, said there were high hopes of attracting more top-class overseas players, as well as a strong Australian contingent.