Charl Schwartzel and Jason Dufner are the first global stars to confirm their participation in the Perth International.

Due to be played at Lake Karrinyup Country Club in Perth, Western Australia, from October 18-21, the tournament is co-sanctioned by the PGA Tour of Australasia and The European Tour, and with prize money of US$2m it is the richest tournament in Australia.

Schwartzel, a seven-time European Tour winner, who shot to prominence when he claimed the coveted Green Jacket at Augusta in 2011, said: "It has been a while since I was down in Australia for a Tour event, but I have always enjoyed the people and the culture there and the great sporting rivalry between our countries in cricket and rugby.

"I am looking forward to visiting Perth, and hopefully I can continue the South African success at Lake Karrinyup."

Dufner has enjoyed an incredible 2012 season, winning at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans and the HP Byron Nelson Championship, and notching up a further seven top 10 finishes.

"I have a real affinity for Australia and have heard a lot of great things about Perth and Western Australia," said the American.

"I am really looking forward to experiencing another part of Australia and hopefully I can continue my good play 'down under'. I am excited to have the opportunity to play in Western Australia for the first time and hope the community will really support this new event."

The winner will receive an exemption to the World Golf Championships - HSBC Champions.