The Victorian Government has declared the 2019 Boxing Day Test against New Zealand as a major event under the Major Events Act 2009 to ensure cricket fans can access tickets to the match at a fair price.
The government has also declared next year’s men’s and women’s ICC T20 World Cup tournaments – with finals to be played at the MCG – as major events under the Act.
The Act protects fans from being ripped off by ticket scalpers and ensures that tickets to major events are available to everyone.
Under the legislation, tickets to a declared event cannot be advertised or resold for more than 10 per cent above the original value.
While the internet has made it easier for people to buy tickets, it has also encouraged a thriving resale market.
Authorised ticketing officers will support Victoria Police in enforcing the law. Penalties can range from $806 up to $483,500 depending on the nature of offences.
The Victorian Government has also launched a new dedicated website to give consumers up-to-date information on the latest declared events.
Events protected by Victoria’s anti-scalping law include the AFL Grand Final and other finals games, the Anzac Day match between Collingwood and Essendon, the Australian Open tennis and non-sporting attractions including the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.
Sporting events attract both local and international visitors and are crucial to the state’s economy, generating $1.8 billion and creating jobs for Victorians.
