About

Victoria is home to some of Australia's most iconic sporting, theatre and cultural events. Major events belong to everyone, and we want fans and supporters to be able to enjoy them. The Victorian Government is dedicated to protecting consumers from ticket scalping and maintaining Victoria’s reputation as the major events capital of Australia.

What is Ticket Scalping?

Ticket scalping occurs when individuals or organisations purchase tickets and advertise or resell them at inflated prices, often far exceeding their original face value. This unfair practice exploits genuine fans, limits access to reasonably priced tickets and has the potential to cause reputational damage for organisations, performers and venues.

The Major Events Act 2009

The Major Events Act 2009 protects fans from ticket scalping and ensures fair access to major events. When an event is declared a major event under the Act, the following provisions apply:

• It is illegal to sell or advertise tickets for resale at more than 10% above face value.
• Individual ticket resale advertisements must include:
  • The face value (original price displayed on the ticket)
  • The intended resale price
  • Seating location details (if applicable).

• Ticket package sellers must be authorised by the event organiser (a list of authorised sellers can be found on the event organiser’s website). Advertisements must include:
  • Seller’s name
  • ABN/ACN
  • A statement confirming authorisation by the event organiser.

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in penalties ranging from $1,018 to $610,530 depending on the nature and severity of the offence. For more details, go to the Legislation page.

Click on Buying & Reselling Tickets for recommended guidelines on how to resell your tickets to a declared event.

Not a Declared Event?

An event must be officially declared to be covered by the Major Events Act 2009. This is usually at the request of the event organiser through a Major Event Ticketing Declaration. Please check the Current Declared Major Events page. Every Major Event Ticketing Declaration is published in the Victorian Government Gazette. Other consumer protection laws may still be relevant.

Please see How do I report ticket scams and fraudulent activity online?

Report a Ticket Scalping Offence

You can report a suspected offence for investigation if you believe a ticket to a declared event is being:

• Advertised or sold for more than 10% above its face value
• Promoted as part of an unauthorised ticket package, or
• Listed without the mandatory ticket details

An Authorised Ticketing Officer will assess the matter and determine whether a violation has occurred.