The 1980 Men's World Outdoor Bowls Championship was held at the City of Frankston Bowling Club in Frankston, Melbourne, Australia, from 17 January to 2 February 1980.
The Australian government would not allow the South African team to compete because of the South African policy of apartheid.
David Bryant won his second singles title following his triumph in the 1966 competition.
Australia won the pairs, England won the triples and Hong Kong won the fours. The Leonard Trophy went to England who beat Australia into first place by virtue of having a higher shot percentage.