Australian Lottery Games
Australia's major lottery games are operated by The Lott (Tatts Group) and sold through state-based lottery operators including Golden Casket (QLD), NSW Lotteries, SA Lotteries, and Tattersall's (VIC/TAS).
Australian Powerball
Every Thursday
From $3M+
7 numbers from 1–35 + 1 Powerball from 1–20
Oz Lotto
Every Tuesday
From $2M+
7 numbers from 1–47; rolls over until won
Saturday Lotto
Every Saturday
From $4M+
6 numbers from 1–45; most popular draw
Are Australian Lottery Winnings Taxable?
The ATO does not treat lottery prizes as assessable income. Under Australian tax law, windfalls such as lottery wins, gambling winnings, and gifts are generally not taxable for individuals.
Important exception: If the ATO determines you are a "professional gambler" — someone who engages in gambling as a systematic business activity — winnings may be treated as business income and taxed accordingly. For casual players, there is no tax liability on the prize itself.
Investment returns on your winnings (interest, dividends, rental income) are taxable in the normal way. If you give a portion of your winnings to someone else, they are also not taxed on the gift.
Odds Comparison — Australian Powerball vs Oz Lotto
| Game | Jackpot Odds | Any Prize Odds |
|---|---|---|
| AU Powerball | 1 in 134,490,400 | 1 in 44 |
| Oz Lotto | 1 in 45,379,620 | 1 in 55 |
How to Claim Australian Lottery Prizes
- Up to $599.30: Claim at any authorised lottery retailer by presenting your winning ticket.
- $599.30 to $999.99: Claim at a Tatts or The Lott outlet, or online if you purchased digitally.
- $1,000 and above: Claim online (for digital tickets) or visit a state lottery office. Bring valid photo ID. No tax withholding is deducted.
- Division 1 jackpot: Camelot/The Lott will contact you directly. A personal appointment is arranged for prize validation and transfer.
Claims must generally be made within 6 years of the draw date in most states.