The $5,000 line
A raffle with a total prize value of $5,000 or less is a minor lottery: no licence needed, provided it’s run by a not-for-profit body (a school community or P&C qualifies) for its approved purpose. Above $5,000 it becomes a major lottery and needs a licence from Consumer and Business Services before tickets go on sale.
The rules that apply either way
- Proceeds to the purpose: minor lotteries must put at least 20% of gross proceeds to the cause (major lotteries, 35%) — a school raffle with donated prizes clears this easily.
- Take down details: SA expects the buyer’s details captured with the ticket — the classic name-and-address stub is exactly what the rules picture.
- Organisers don’t win their own raffle: the people running the lottery shouldn’t buy tickets in it. Tell the committee before they grumble.
- Notify winners: in writing within 7 days if the prize isn’t handed over on the spot.
- Keep the records: at least 3 months for minor lotteries (12 for major) — numbered ticket books are the record.
The fine print: general information for school fundraisers, not legal advice. The authoritative source is Consumer and Business Services (CBS) South Australia. Thresholds change — check before a big raffle.
Raffle rules by state: NSW · VIC · QLD · SA · WA · TAS · ACT · NT