Draft Legislation Aims to Close Loopholes
The Australian Lottery & Newsagents Association (ALNA) has endorsed the government's new legislation aimed at protecting small businesses and consumers from shadow-market lottery products. The announcement was made on 29th May 2026.
Draft legislation introduced today seeks to amend the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 to close loopholes allowing unregulated lottery products to operate. These measures include prohibiting foreign matched lotteries, which threaten the livelihoods of over 4,000 small businesses reliant on state-licensed lotteries.
Ben Kearney, CEO of ALNA, stated, "The Federal Government’s proposed prohibition on foreign matched lotteries and online keno, and other strong regulations to clarify the definition of online trade promotion gambling services, are a vital step to protect thousands of Australian mum-and-dad small businesses, their employees, consumers, and the charities that depend on a well-regulated lotteries sector."
Impact on Small Businesses
ALNA has voiced concerns that the unchecked growth of shadow-market lotteries could lead to the closure of small businesses and threaten the jobs of an estimated 20,000 employees. These businesses are integral to communities, especially in regional and rural Australia, where they often serve as essential service providers.
Foreign matched lottery products have caused confusion among consumers, as they do not directly participate in overseas lottery draws but instead rely on online operators' promises to pay out. These products are only regulated in the Northern Territory and lack the integrity protections of state-licensed lottery tickets.
Kearney added, "Our members are the backbone of local communities across Australia. They pay their taxes, employ local people, and play by the rules. We thank the Government for hearing their call, and we look forward to working with all parties to see these reforms through the Parliament."
The new legislation aims to clarify the definition of trade promotion gambling services, ensuring consumer protection and supporting charities dependent on a well-regulated lottery sector. ALNA urges swift passage of these reforms through Parliament.
