South Australian Raffle Rules

Raffle Rules in South Australia (Updated for 2024)

Raffles are a tried-and-true method of raising funds for charitable and community causes. In South Australia, raffles are regulated under the Lotteries Act 2019 and the Lotteries Regulations 2021. Whether you’re planning a minor or major lottery, here’s everything you need to know to ensure compliance.

Types of Lotteries

Major Lotteries

• Definition: Fundraisers where the total prize value exceeds $5,000.
• Permit: A licence is required before any major lottery can begin or be advertised.
• Licence Number: Must be included on all tickets and in advertising.

Minor Lotteries

• Definition: Fundraisers with a total prize value of $5,000 or less.
• Permit: No licence is required for minor lotteries.
• Conditions: Minor lotteries must still adhere to South Australian rules and regulations.

Entry and Participation

• Eligibility:
  • Anyone can enter, subject to terms and conditions.
  • Members of the organising committee, or those involved in running or promoting the lottery, cannot participate.
• Age Restrictions:
  • Tickets cannot be sold to or purchased by individuals under 18 years old.
  • Children under 15 years old may sell tickets only when accompanied by an adult.

Use of Proceeds

Funds raised must benefit an approved purpose, which includes:

• Charitable, religious, or educational purposes.
• Community development or promoting the arts, science, or environmental preservation.
• Promoting local communities, sports, or recreation.
• Other purposes approved by the commissioner.

Minimum Proceeds Requirement:

• At least 20% of gross proceeds for minor lotteries.
• At least 35% of gross proceeds for major lotteries.

If proceeds fall short of covering prize costs, the organisation must make up the difference and notify Consumer and Business Services (CBS) in writing.

Tickets and Pricing

• Pricing: All tickets must be sold at the same price unless bonus tickets (e.g., buy 10, get 1 free) are offered. Bonus ticket offers must be clearly advertised and apply throughout the sale period.
• Ticket Content:
  • Buyer’s Section:
    • Licence number (major lotteries only).
    • Ticket number, price, and total number of tickets.
    • Name of the organising and beneficiary organisations.
    • Prize details, including value.
    • Terms and conditions, including age restrictions.
    • Date, time, and location of the draw.
    • Publication details for results.
  • Seller’s Section (Butt):
    • Same ticket number as the buyer’s section.
    • Buyer’s name, address, phone number, or email.
    • Organisation details and draw date.

Advertising and Conduct Rules

• Advertising:
  • Must include sufficient information about the chances of winning, ticket pricing, and draw details.
  • Cannot target individuals under 18 or exaggerate the odds of winning.
• Ticket Distribution:
  • Tickets cannot be given or posted without consent. Invitations to purchase tickets may be sent, but tickets themselves must not be included.
• Drawing Rules:
  • Must take place on the specified date, time, and location.
  • Major lotteries with total prizes exceeding $30,000 require:
    • An independent scrutineer (e.g., justice of the peace or authorised official).
    • An independent auditor to verify financial records and ticket reconciliation.

Publishing Results and Winner Notification

• Results:
  • For major lotteries, prizes exceeding $250 must be published within 30 days using the method specified in the terms and conditions.
• Notification:
  • Winners not present at the draw must be notified in writing within 7 days, including details on prize collection or delivery.

Banking and Record-Keeping

• Banking:
  • All proceeds must be deposited into a bank account operated by the organisation.
• Records:
  • Minor lotteries: Retain records for 3 months.
  • Major lotteries: Retain records for 1 year.
  • Records must include:
    • Total ticket books issued and sold.
    • Names and contact details of ticket purchasers.
    • Financial records of income and expenses.

Penalties and Compliance

• Penalties:
  • Dishonest conduct in connection with a lottery can result in fines up to $50,000 or 2 years imprisonment.
  • Management committees, CEOs, or employees responsible for non-compliance may also face penalties.

Contact Information for CBS Lotteries

For more information or to apply for a licence, contact Consumer and Business Services (CBS):

• Phone: 131 882 (option 6)
• Email: lotterylicensing@agd.sa.gov.au
• Address: GPO Box 1719, Adelaide SA 5001
• Website: SA.GOV.AU - Lotteries

By following these updated guidelines, your raffle can be a successful and compliant fundraiser for your cause.