Ever wondered how the lucky winners of our lottery games feel about their wildest dreams coming true?
In the 12 months ending 31 December 2023, there were 500 division one winning entries across Australia that collectively won more than $1.5 billion in division one prize money.
We surveyed our division one winners to find out what they did with their prize, how their windfalls changed their lives, and if any
long-held dreams became a reality.
Ring ringMore than a third (34%) of winners discovered their win when we called to break the news. It's a great reason to Join The Lott Members Club so we can give you a winning phone call if you score division one.
Spreading the word Most winners couldn’t wait to share the life-changing news with those closest to them, whether it was their partner, family or friends. Only 5% kept it under wraps and told absolutely no one.
Sharing is caring40% of division one winners shared they used their prize to help family and friends. 13% of winners revealed they used their prize to donate to charities close to their hearts.
The trip of a lifetime!Aussie winners love to use their prize to explore what the world has to offer, booking an immediate holiday to all corners of Australia and around the globe.
Japan was among the most popular overseas destinations, as was an extended European holiday. The Gold Coast was a popular spot closer to home.
Top of the wish listWhile the possibilities are endless, the top three things on the wish list for division one winners were:
1. Investing money for the future (53%)
2. Paying off the mortgage or buying a new house (53%)
2. Helping family and friends (40%)
Winners could select more than one response.
About the winnersThe Annual Winners Survey is compiled from division one winners across all lottery games. The survey received 87 responses. Those who enjoyed a win in Saturday Lotto made up 66% of survey respondents.
More than 80% of division one winners who participated in the survey won up to $3 million in prize money.
The rollercoaster of winning emotions
From sudden shock to stunned silence, many winners discovered that a division one win can bring the joy of the unexpected!
32% of winners said that when they discovered their prize, their first feeling was one of disbelief.
“I had to check my online account immediately because I thought it was a scam call. I just sat there thinking, ‘I can’t believe this!’ and I messaged my husband to call me ASAP because he was at the gym. When he rang, I told him that I was sending a screenshot and I just kept thinking, ‘Oh my gosh, we’ve won Lotto!’.”
Let the celebrations begin!
A glass of champagne with a loved one, a shindig with mates, or even a quiet night at home with a warm cup of tea. Many winners embraced celebrations that were best suited to them and shared the winning moment with their nearest and dearest.
“We cried together and started searching for our new future house.”
“I enjoyed a bottle of Taittinger with a couple of friends.”
“I took the outlet agent out for morning tea.”
40% of division one winners who participated in the survey shared the news with their immediate family.
The winning difference: Paying it forward
Our winners often describe winning the lottery as a beacon of hope and positivity that draws them closer to their life-long dreams and long-held aspirations, whether they’re big or small.
But many also enjoy the generosity afforded by their prize, opting to make a positive difference for their loved ones or their community.
“We are in the process of setting up a not-for-profit to donate to a range of charities including but not limited to the Royal Flying Doctors and the Royal Children’s Hospital.”
“It has made a difference to our kids as it was always going to be very hard to get into the housing market. Our relatives and a few friends were so genuinely thankful and also really happy for us. For some of them, it was a lifeline. For us, we have a bit more of a buffer for when we are both retired.”
“Those closest to me are debt-free. My heart is happy to have donated to my charities that means so much to me and I am also debt-free and able to help my immediate family.”
Dreaming of what your own winning experience might be like?
Making unique dreams come true
The fun doesn’t stop once the winning moment is over!
Many winners envision countless possibilities beyond their windfalls and find ways to maximise their prize to its full potential.
Others enjoy finally taking care of some simple every day things.
“We bought a jet ski that my kids had bugged me for but we couldn’t afford, and now I use it with them whenever I can. I also helped my son with some of his bills and preparation for his wedding”
“I did purchase some home items that will immediately make my life more comfortable: New washing machine, fridge and leaf blower for the yard. Looking at an electric gate for the property entry too."
“So far, we went to the Monaco Grand Prix. It's always been a life dream to do so.”
Advice from those in the know
“Let it sink in fully because It doesn’t feel real at first. I still haven’t fully decided what to do with my money yet, and I’m glad I didn’t rush into large expenditure.”
“Don’t tell anyone until you have consulted a financial planner. You need that advice before making decisions or promises.”
“Doesn’t matter how much you accumulate in your life you are not going to eat it all alone. Make sure to help others.”
Could this be the beginning of something special for you?
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*The Lott’s Annual Winners Survey has been compiled from data collected through a survey sent to winners of division one across all lottery games between 1 January and 31 December 2023.