1981 South Australian Open – Singles

Mark Edmondson won the title, defeating Brad Drewett 7–5, 6–2 in the final.

Seeds

 * 1) n/a
 * 2) 🇦🇺 Colin Dibley (first round)
 * 3) 🇺🇸 Tim Gullikson (quarterfinals)
 * 4) 🇳🇿 Chris Lewis (second round)
 * 5) 🇦🇺 Mark Edmondson (champion)
 * 6)  Eddie Edwards (semifinals)
 * 7) 🇦🇺 Syd Ball (semifinals)
 * 8) 🇦🇺 Geoff Masters (first round)