Western Australian Raffle Rules

Raffle Rules in Western Australia

Raffles are a timeless and popular way to raise funds for your favourite cause. But navigating the maze of regulations can be daunting, especially since the rules differ across Australia’s states and territories. To help, here’s a clear guide to running raffles in Western Australia under the latest regulations.

What is a Raffle?

A raffle is any game of chance where participants purchase tickets, each with an equal chance of winning. These range from simple meat tray raffles at the local pub to elaborate fundraising initiatives offering luxury prizes. However, raffles in Western Australia are classified as gaming and regulated under the Gaming and Wagering Commission Act 1987 to protect participants and organisers.

Key Requirements for Western Australian Raffles

If you plan to sell tickets for more than one day, a Standard Lottery Permit is required. Here's what you need to know:

Permit Details

• Application: Submit your application online at least 14 days before ticket sales begin via the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries (DLGSC) website.
• Validity: Permits are typically valid for three months. Extensions can be requested if needed.
• Fees:
  • Up to $5,000 total prize value: $48
  • $5,001 to $50,000: $115
  • $50,001 to $100,000: $224
  • Over $200,000: $709

Prize Guidelines

• Liquor prizes must have a retail value under $1,000, and individuals under 18 cannot sell or purchase raffle tickets if liquor is included.
• Vehicle prizes must be new (unless classified as veteran or vintage), unencumbered, and valued by a qualified valuer.
• Prohibited prizes include tobacco, firearms, ammunition, and vouchers for gambling products.

Bank Guarantee:

• If the total prize value exceeds $20,000, a bank guarantee or security deposit is required.

Ticket Requirements

Every raffle ticket must clearly display the following:

1. Permit number.
2. Price of the ticket.
3. Description and total value of prizes.
4. Ticket number.
5. Name and contact details of the permit holder.
6. Organisation name.
7. Closing date for ticket sales.
8. Drawing date.
9. Name and date of the newspaper where results will be published.

Additional Guidelines

• Progressive Draw Lotteries: These allow for multiple draws over a three-month period. All tickets must be sold before the first draw, and the details for all draws must be included in the initial permit application.
• Small Private Lotteries: Permits are not required if tickets are sold within the same premises (e.g., a club) within 8 days, and the total prize value does not exceed $1,000.
• Amusements with Prizes: Games such as lucky dips at school fetes are permissible but must remain incidental to the event, with strict limits on costs and prize values.

Compliance and Best Practices

• Retain financial records, including ticket sales, gross receipts, and expenses, for at least 12 months.
• Submit a financial return to the Gaming and Wagering Commission within 14 days of the permit's expiry.
• If you’re new to organising raffles, the DLGSC website provides helpful resources, or you can contact them at rgl@dlgsc.wa.gov.au or (08) 6551 4888.

Final Note

Raffles are a fantastic way to bring communities together and raise funds for a good cause. However, understanding and adhering to the regulations is crucial to ensure your event runs smoothly and legally. 

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