A new genus, Anthelepis R.L.Barrett, K.L.Wilson & J.J.Bruhl, is described for four Cyperaceae species from mainly tropical areas of South-East Asia, New Caledonia and Australia. The relationships of the three previously described species have been much-debated. In recent decades, they have most commonly been placed in either Schoenus L. or Tricostularia Nees ex Lehm., but molecular phylogenetic data have demonstrated that they are not closely related to either genus and a new generic name is required. The following three new combinations are made: Anthelepis guillauminii (Kük.) R.L.Barrett, K.L.Wilson & J.J.Bruhl (based on Schoenus guillauminii Kük.), A. paludosa (R.Br.) R.L.Barrett, K.L.Wilson & J.J.Bruhl (based on Chaetospora paludosa R.Br.) and A. undulata (Thwaites) R.L.Barrett, K.L.Wilson & J.J.Bruhl (based on Cladium undulatum Thwaites). One new species, Anthelepis clarksonii R.L.Barrett, K.L.Wilson & J.J.Bruhl, is described from northern Queensland, Australia, as distinct from A. undulata. Full descriptions, illustrations and a key to species are provided. All species are confirmed as having C₃ anatomy.