The women's field hockey tournament at the 1996 Summer Olympics was the 5th edition of the field hockey event for women at the Summer Olympic Games. It was held over a thirteen-day period beginning on 20 July, and culminating with the medal finals on 1 August. Games were played at the Herndon Stadium and the Panther Stadium, both located in Atlanta, United States. Australia won the gold medal for the second time after defeating Korea 3–1 in the final. The Netherlands won the bronze medal by defeating Great Britain 4–3 in the final on penalty strokes after a 0–0 draw.