As a source of excitement and dreams of sudden wealth, lotteries are a popular form of entertainment in Australia. However, as an accountant, I often encounter questions from clients about the tax implications of lottery winnings. Let’s clarify how lottery winnings are treated under Australian tax law and what this means for lucky winners.

1. Tax-Free Lottery Winnings

  • Generally Tax-Free: In Australia, money won from playing the lottery, including scratch cards and gaming machines, is generally not taxable. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) does not consider lottery winnings as income.
  • Reason for Tax-Free Status: The reasoning is that these winnings are typically considered a windfall gain and are not earned from an income-producing activity.

2. Exceptions and Considerations

  • Investing Winnings: While the initial receipt of the winnings is tax-free, any income that these winnings generate, such as interest from a bank account or returns from investment, is taxable.
  • Regular Gambling as a Business: In rare cases, if someone is considered to be professional gambling or using a systematic method, their winnings may be classified as income and thus taxable. This is, however, a rare circumstance.

3. Gifting and Donations

  • Tax on Gifts: Gifting some of your winnings to family or friends does not trigger a tax for you as the donor. However, depending on the amount and the circumstances, there may be implications for the recipient, particularly in relation to the Family Tax Benefit.
  • Donations to Charities: Donations made to registered charities can be tax-deductible. Ensure that you keep receipts for any donations made.

4. Financial Planning and Advice

  • Seek Financial Advice: It’s wise to seek financial advice on how best to manage and invest your winnings to ensure they are sustainable in the long term.
  • Estate Planning: Consider how your newfound wealth may affect your estate planning and seek advice accordingly.

5. Investment Income from Winnings

  • Taxable Income: Any investment income derived from your winnings, such as interest or dividends, is subject to tax.
  • Capital Gains Tax: If you invest your winnings and sell the investment later at a profit, you may be subject to Capital Gains Tax on the profit.

6. Lottery Annuity Payments

  • Periodic Payments: In cases where lottery winnings are paid as an annuity over several years, each payment is still considered a windfall and is not taxable.

7. Keeping Records

  • Documentation: Keep records of your winnings and what you do with the money, especially if you invest it or give substantial amounts away.


In Australia, lottery winnings themselves are not subject to taxation. However, how you use or invest those winnings can have tax implications. Managing large sums of money can be complex, so seeking financial and legal advice is crucial to ensure you make the most of your windfall while complying with any relevant tax laws on subsequent earnings or investments.