Jason Dufner

World number nine Jason Dufner and 2011 Masters winner Charl Schwartzel have been confirmed as the first two internationals for the inaugural Perth International in October.

Co-sanctioned by the PGA Tour of Australasia and European Tour, the event is Australia's richest golf tournament with US$2 million up for grabs.

After a stellar season, including wins at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans and HP Byron Nelson Championship, Dufner hopes his form will be enough to clinch the title at Lake Karrinyup Country Club.

"I have a real affinity for Australia and have heard a lot of great things about Perth and Western Australia," the 35-year-old American said.

"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."

A victory for South African Schwartzel, the world number 22, would see him repeat the feat of compatriots Gary Player, Ernie Els and Retief Goosen, who have all won at the club in Perth's northern suburbs.

Schwartzel has two top-10 finishes on the PGA Tour this year, which both came in March.

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

The Perth International will mark the return of top-level golf to the Western Australian capital for the first time since 2003, with the tournament to run from October 18-21.