Do I Need a Permit for a Competition in Australia?
Whether you need a permit in Australia depends on the type of competition, the prize value and the state.
A game of skill, where the winner is chosen on merit, needs no permit in any Australian state. Photo judging, "25 words or less" and voting contests are examples. A game of chance, like a random draw, can need a permit in some states once the prize value passes a set amount. This isn't legal advice, and the rules can change.
- Decide whether your Competition is skill or chance.
- If it's chance, check the prize value against these thresholds for the states you'll accept entries from:
| State | Permit needed if prize is |
|---|---|
| New South Wales | $10,000 or more |
| South Australia | $5,000 or more |
| Australian Capital Territory | $3,000 or more |
| Northern Territory | $5,000 or more |
| Victoria | No permit |
| Queensland | No permit |
| Western Australia | No permit if prescribed conditions are met |
| Tasmania | No permit if prescribed conditions are met |
- If you need a permit, apply early. Processing can take up to 28 days, and only New South Wales offers a permit that covers multiple competitions.
- Confirm the current rules with each state's regulator before you launch.
Gleam generates Terms & Conditions for every Competition, which you can adjust in the Setup tab, but we can't give legal advice. If your case is unclear, talk to a lawyer who knows Australian promotions law.