How to Play Australian Lottery Games

A clear, practical guide to understanding how Australian lottery games work — rules, prize tiers, draw schedules and responsible play information.

Getting Started with Australian Lotteries

Australian lotteries are run by state-licensed operators and regulated by each state's gambling authority. All games are draw-based, meaning winning numbers are selected at random. There is no skill involved.

1

Purchase a Ticket

Buy a ticket through an authorised retailer or the official operator's website. You must be 18 or over.

2

Select Your Numbers

Choose your numbers manually or use a QuickPick (random selection). The number of picks varies by game.

3

Watch the Draw

Draws happen at scheduled times and are broadcast on television. Results are published officially within minutes.

4

Check Your Numbers

Compare your ticket to the winning numbers. You can also use Au Loto to look up results quickly after each draw.

5

Claim Your Prize

Small prizes at authorised retailers; larger prizes require contact with the state lottery operator. You typically have 12 months.

6

Stay Responsible

Set a budget, play for entertainment, and never spend more than you can afford. Seek help if needed: 1800 858 858.

Powerball Australia — Full Game Guide

Thursday

Powerball is Australia's largest lottery game and has produced multiple jackpots above $100 million. Here is a complete breakdown of how it works.

The Draw Format

  • Select 7 main numbers from 1 to 35
  • Select 1 Powerball number from a separate barrel of 1 to 20
  • Division 1 requires matching all 7 main numbers plus the Powerball
  • Draws occur every Thursday at approximately 8:30 PM AEST
  • Jackpot rolls over each week Division 1 is not claimed

Minimum Entry

A standard game (1 game, 7 numbers + 1 Powerball) costs approximately $1.35 before system entry fees. Most players use multi-game entries or System entries for broader coverage.

Prize Divisions

DivisionWhat You Need to MatchApproximate Odds
Division 17 main numbers + Powerball1 in 134,490,400
Division 27 main numbers (no Powerball)1 in 7,078,443
Division 36 main numbers + Powerball1 in 686,176
Division 46 main numbers (no Powerball)1 in 36,115
Division 55 main numbers + Powerball1 in 16,943
Division 64 main numbers + Powerball1 in 1,173
Division 75 main numbers (no Powerball)1 in 892
Division 83 main numbers + Powerball1 in 188
Division 92 main numbers + Powerball1 in 66

Oz Lotto — Game Rules

Tuesday
  • Select 7 numbers from 1 to 45
  • Two supplementary numbers are also drawn from the remaining balls
  • Draws every Tuesday at approximately 9:30 PM AEST
  • Division 1 jackpot starts at $2 million and accumulates when not won
  • Record jackpot: $111,972,151 (4 November 2012)
Full Prize Division Table

Saturday, Monday & Wednesday Lotto — Game Rules

Mon / Wed / Sat

All three games share an identical format:

  • Select 6 numbers from 1 to 45
  • Two supplementary numbers are drawn from the remaining balls
  • Saturday Lotto: guaranteed $4 million Division 1 every week
  • Monday and Wednesday Lotto: guaranteed $1 million Division 1
  • Superdraw events boost the Saturday Lotto jackpot to $20–$30 million
View All Prize Divisions

Quick Links

Draw Schedule

  • Monday LottoMon 8:30 PM
  • Oz LottoTue 9:30 PM
  • Wednesday LottoWed 8:30 PM
  • Powerball AUThu 8:30 PM
  • Set for LifeThu 9:00 PM
  • Saturday LottoSat 8:30 PM

All times AEST. Entry closes 30 minutes before draw.

Need Support?

If gambling is affecting you or someone you know, free and confidential help is available.

1800 858 858