Sydney, August 20, 2025 – In a move poised to reshape one of Australia’s most popular lottery games, The Lottery Corporation has unveiled plans for a significant price hike on Powerball tickets, effective November 2025.
The cost per game will rise from $1.20 to $1.40, marking the latest adjustment aimed at inflating prize pools and delivering more substantial jackpots to players.
The announcement comes amid the corporation’s FY25 results, which highlighted resilient player engagement despite economic headwinds.
Managing Director and CEO Sue van der Merwe outlined the strategy, emphasizing the refresh as a way to elevate the game’s appeal. “Subject to regulatory approval, we intend to refresh our Powerball game with a price change enabling increased prizes across all divisions,” van der Merwe stated. “This will enhance Powerball as Australia’s most popular premium jackpot game.”
This isn’t the first time Powerball has seen a price tweak. Back in 2022, the corporation raised the entry fee from $1.10 to $1.20 to fund larger prizes, a change that successfully embedded higher subscription prices and commission rates.
The 2024 fiscal year proved particularly lucrative, featuring a record $200 million jackpot and strong performance from other draws like Oz Lotto.
Powerball remains the corporation’s top earner, raking in over $1.2 billion in revenue, even as other games like Saturday Lotto experienced dips amid cost-of-living pressures.
Lottery officials argue that the upcoming 20-cent increase will directly translate to benefits for participants. By boosting the prize pools, the change promises more frequent and larger wins across divisions, potentially creating additional millionaires and enhancing the overall excitement.
Retailers stand to gain as well, with higher commissions expected to flow from the elevated ticket sales.
However, the timing of the hike has sparked mixed reactions, especially as households continue to navigate rising living expenses. Critics worry that the increase could deter casual players, making the game less accessible during tough economic times.
“While bigger prizes sound great, not everyone can afford to spend more on a chance at winning,” said consumer advocate Sarah Thompson from Choice. “It risks pricing out lower-income families who enjoy the occasional flutter.
“On the flip side, dedicated lottery enthusiasts appear undeterred. Social media buzz, including posts on X (formerly Twitter), shows optimism about the potential for life-changing jackpots. One user tweeted, “If it means more $100M+ draws like last year, count me in! #PowerballAustralia.”
The corporation reports steady participation throughout 2024 and early 2025, with high retention following previous price adjustments, such as the recent Saturday Lotto increase from 75 cents to 85 cents per game.
The Lottery Corporation’s broader FY25 earnings reflect a stable foundation, with a dividend increase despite a slight revenue dip.
Powerball’s performance has been a bright spot, drawing millions with its escalating jackpots – three $100 million prizes in the previous year alone captivated the nation.
As November approaches, players are advised to watch for regulatory approvals and further details on how the enhanced prize structure will unfold. For now, the dream of striking it rich continues to fuel Australia’s lottery fever, even if it comes at a slightly higher cost.
The next Powerball draw, unaffected by the change, is set for this Thursday, with the jackpot currently building toward another potential blockbuster.
