For organisers

Organiser Compliance Checklist

Running a raffle or lucky squares fundraiser is regulated in every Australian state and territory. Lucky Squares Australia provides the platform, but you, as the organiser, are responsible for making sure your fundraiser complies with the law where you are. This checklist is a starting point, not legal advice, when in doubt, check with your state's fair trading or consumer affairs regulator before you launch.

1. Before you launch: licence and permit check

  • Check whether your fundraiser needs a permit or licence in your state or territory. Requirements are usually driven by your prize pool value and whether your organisation is an incorporated association, registered charity, or something else.
  • See our Raffle Compliance page for a state-by-state starting point, then confirm directly with your state regulator, rules change and the summary may not reflect the latest position.
  • If a permit is required, apply for it and have it approved before you start selling squares, not after.
  • Keep a copy of your permit or licence (or your written basis for not needing one) with your records.
Raffle Compliance Guide →

2. Prize rules

  • Describe each prize accurately: what it is, its value, and whether it is donated or purchased.
  • Do not advertise a prize you are not certain you can deliver.
  • If a prize has no cash alternative, say so clearly in your campaign description.
  • If your prize pool is large or unusual (e.g. a car, an overseas trip), check whether it triggers a different permit category or reporting requirement in your state.

3. Terms and conditions for your campaign

  • Make sure your campaign description on Lucky Squares is accurate: number of squares, price per square, and how you will run the draw.
  • Your live grid page automatically shows visitors how your draw works, and what happens if it doesn't sell out, so you don't need to restate this yourself.
  • Do not promise your campaign is "approved" or "compliant" unless you have actually confirmed that with your state regulator.
  • Remember Lucky Squares Australia is the technology platform, not the promoter, of your fundraiser, so your own campaign description should not suggest otherwise.

4. Running the draw and notifying winners

  • Run the draw only once you are ready. The result is final once drawn.
  • When you run the draw, Lucky Squares automatically emails winners and buyers on your behalf, using the contact details provided at checkout.
  • If a winner cannot be reached, check your state's rules on unclaimed prizes, some require you to hold the prize for a minimum period or follow a specific unclaimed-prize process.

5. Paying prizes

  • Pay cash prizes directly to winners from your own funds. Lucky Squares Australia does not hold or pay out prize money on your behalf.
  • Keep proof of payment (bank transfer receipt, gift card purchase receipt, etc.) for your records.
  • For donated prizes (physical items, experiences), arrange handover or delivery directly with the winner and keep a record that it occurred.

6. Record keeping

  • Keep records of: your permit/licence (if applicable), final list of entries/squares sold, the draw result, winner notification, and proof of prize payment.
  • Keep these records for as long as your state's regulator requires, this varies, so check the specific retention period that applies to you rather than assuming a default.
  • If your fundraiser is cancelled before the draw, keep a record of refunds issued to participants.

7. If something goes wrong

  • If a participant complains about your fundraiser, you are the first point of contact, not Lucky Squares Australia.
  • If you believe the Lucky Squares platform itself was used improperly or unlawfully (not your own campaign), contact hello@luckysquares.com.au.
  • If you are ever unsure whether something is compliant, ask your state regulator before proceeding rather than after.

This checklist is general guidance for organisers using the Lucky Squares Australia platform and is not a substitute for legal advice specific to your organisation, prize pool, or state. Requirements vary by state and change over time.