Australian betting and gaming operator Tabcorp and Lottland’s regional subsidiary Lottoland Australia have been awarded 20 year licences in Victoria. 

Both licences commence on 15 April 2022 and run until 2024, with the two companies permitted to provide Keno games services across online and retail verticals by the Victorian State Government. 

ASX-listed gambling group Tabcorp had previously been active in the state under a 10-year licence secured in 2012 for AUS $60 million, with the new two decade permit paid for with a AUS$25 million up-front transaction. 

The group, whose Lotteries and Keno unit registered an 11% increase in revenues to AUS $1.78 billion in its half year 2020/21 results, is also licenced to provide the products in New South Wales, South Australia, Queensland and the Capital Territory until 2050, 2054, 2047 and 2064 respectively. 

Tabcorp’s Managing Director of Lotteries & Keno, Sue van der Merwe, said: “Tabcorp is pleased to continue its partnership with the Victorian Government. with the longer term and expanded channel flexibility offered under this licence.

“The new structure will allow us to continue offering Victorian players a world class Keno product and responsibly grow the game further, backed by our extensive retail and brand presence and the expertise gained from our existing Keno online business.”

The Victorian State Government’s awarding of the two licences sees the state return to a dual licence system under a new regime, implemented following the Keno Licence Review, which concluded with an Invitation to Tender for a licence to provide the products.

This marks the first dual licences to be awarded in any Australian state, with Lottoland planning to launch its KenoGo offering in Victoria in the coming months. 

Nigel Birrell, CEO of Lottoland, remarked: “We are thrilled to have been granted a Keno licence by the Victoria State Government and look forward to launching KenoGo in 2022.

“I would like to personally thank the Minister for Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Melissa Horne, and the Victorian State Government for awarding the first dual licence in Australia.

“Most importantly, this licence means that consumers in Victoria will be able to enjoy Keno online on their smartphone or computer for the first time ever, with new gaming experiences and greater choice through Lottoland.”