Victorian Raffle Rules

Victorian Raffle Rules

Raffles are a beloved way to raise funds for charities and community initiatives, but understanding the rules is essential for ensuring your raffle is conducted legally. Victorian raffle regulations are designed to protect participants and organisers while promoting fair play. Here’s an updated guide to help you navigate the process.

What is a Raffle?

A raffle is a lottery where tickets are sold, and winners are determined by chance. From simple school fundraisers to large-scale raffles with significant prizes, all raffles in Victoria must adhere to the Gambling Regulations Act 2003 and rules set by the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC).

Key Requirements for Conducting a Raffle

Victorian raffle rules vary depending on the total prize value. Below are the main categories and conditions:

Small Raffles (Prize Value: $500 or Less)

• Conditions:
  • The total value of prizes must not exceed $500.
  • The first ticket sale and the draw must occur on the same day or within an 8-hour period.
  • The total value of tickets for sale must be: not less than twice, and no more than six times, the total value of the prizes.
• Tickets:
  • Can be blank raffle books with numbered tickets or buttless numbered tickets for spinning wheel draws.
• Proceeds:
  • Ticket sellers cannot be paid.
  • Book buyers’ prizes are not allowed.
• Records:
  • Accurate records of funds and prizes must be kept for 3 years.

Raffles with Total Prize Value of $21,900 or Less

• Conditions:
  • Tickets may be sold for a maximum of 3 months.
  • Ticket sales must be at least twice and no more than six times the prize value.
  • Book buyers’ prizes are not permitted.
  • Tickets already drawn are not eligible for a redraw.
• Tickets:
  • Printed tickets must include:
    • Name of the organisation.
    • Description and value of prizes.
    • Date, time, and location of the draw.
    • Notification method for winners.
• The Draw:
  • Must occur within 14 days of the last ticket sale.
• Records:
  • Organisers must maintain detailed records for 3 years, including ticket sales, buyer details, and prize distribution.

Raffles with Total Prize Value Exceeding $21,900

• Permit:
  • A minor gaming permit is mandatory.
  • Application forms are available on the VGCCC website.
• Ticket Sales:
  • Tickets must only be sold during the authorised period.
  • Sellers must collect sufficient buyer details for contact and delivery purposes.
  • Payment of sellers is not permitted, except for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses.
• Tickets:
  • Each ticket must display:
    • Permit number.
    • Maximum number of tickets authorised.
    • Price, prize details, and draw information.
    • Beneficiary organisation or political party (if applicable).
• The Draw:
  • Must occur on the date authorised by the permit.
  • A ticket drawn cannot be eligible for subsequent draws unless authorised.
• Records:
  • Detailed records must be kept for 3 years, covering sales, draw methods, and prize distribution.

Additional Rules for All Raffles

Prohibited and Restricted Prizes

• Not Allowed: Cash, debit cards, and shares. However, travel prizes may include up to 10% cash.
• Liquor Prizes:
  • Permitted in licensed venues if all legal requirements are met.
  • Unlicensed venues may require a temporary liquor licence.

Delivery and Disposal of Prizes

• Prizes must be delivered within 28 days of the draw.
• Unclaimed prizes must be retained for 3 months. Perishable items or livestock can be sold if unclaimed, with proceeds held for 12 months.

Special Notes on Third-Party and Commercial Raffles

• Third-party organisers must have written consent from the benefiting organisation.
• Commercial raffle organisers (CROs) must be licensed and cannot profit beyond approved limits.

Final Notes

Conducting a raffle in Victoria is a rewarding way to support community causes, but compliance with VGCCC regulations is essential. Always review the latest rules and consult the VGCCC for guidance. For more information or assistance, visit the VGCCC website or contact them at 1300 182 457 or contact@vgccc.vic.gov.au.

Please note at the time of writing this article this information was correct. Please refer to the VGCCC website to check that this remains the case.