Lotterywest, Western Australia’s official lottery provider, has achieved its third consecutive year of record-breaking returns, demonstrating its commitment to supporting the local community. In the 2022-23 financial year, Lotterywest contributed an impressive $1.05 billion in grants and lottery prizes to benefit Western Australians.
Out of the total revenue of $1.22 billion generated through lottery sales, Lotterywest allocated $351.5 million to support various community initiatives and $704.2 million in prize money awarded to lucky winners across the state.
“Western Australia is unique, as the only State-owned and operated lottery in the country where profits have been returned to the WA community for the past 90 years,” commented Premier Roger Cook.
A significant portion of the funds, amounting to $130.5 million, was allocated directly to not-for-profit organisations and local governments through 489 grants. This support enabled 428 groups to make a positive impact in their communities.
The grant recipients encompassed a wide range of sectors, including arts and culture, health, and sports. Screenwest and Perth Festival, two prominent contributors to Western Australia’s arts scene, each received a substantial grant of $7.7 million. Additionally, smaller grants, such as the $3,000 provided to Swan Valley Voices for arts and cultural activities, showcased Lotterywest’s commitment to supporting local initiatives of all sizes.
Lotterywest also collaborated with the Western Australian Government to establish a $3.4 million grant program. This program aimed to empower 16 Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations in delivering essential services to Aboriginal communities across the state.
The health sector received a significant boost from Lotterywest, with $176.7 million in funding dedicated to supporting crucial health initiatives. Additionally, the sports and arts sectors each received $22 million, further enriching Western Australia’s vibrant cultural landscape.
The 2022-23 financial year brought extraordinary luck to many Western Australian players, with 80 individuals sharing a remarkable $236 million worth of Division One prizes. Among the winners was a family from the Swan Valley who claimed a life-changing $40 million Powerball prize. Additionally, a group of eight friends celebrated their collective success after winning a $30 million OZ Lotto prize.
