- Published:
- Tuesday 7 May 2019
The Andrews Labor Government is making sure cricket fans can fairly access tickets to Australia’s biggest and most-loved cricket match, the Boxing Day Test at the MCG.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula this week declared the 2019 Boxing Day Test against New Zealand as a major event under the Major Events Act 2009, due to an expected high demand for tickets.
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.
In more good news for cricket in Victoria, four Women’s T20 Tri-Series matches between Australia, England and India will be played at the Junction Oval this summer.
The revamped cricket centre features new high-performance facilities, medical and rehabilitation areas and an oval that can be used year-round.
The Labor Government delivered $25 million towards the $40 million Victorian Cricket and Community Centre at the Junction Oval, with Cricket Australia and Cricket Victoria pitching in the rest.
Under the Major Events Act 2009, the Boxing Day Test declaration will make it possible to crack down on ticket scalpers and give fans a fair go at getting tickets at a fair price.
Under the legislation, tickets to a declared event cannot be advertised or resold for more than 10 per cent above the original value.
The Government has launched a new dedicated website to give consumers up-to-date information on the latest declared events. It includes features that make it easier for people to report ticket scalping.
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.
Events protected by Victoria’s anti-scalping law include the AFL Grand Final and other finals games, the Anzac Day blockbuster between Collingwood and Essendon, the Australian Open tennis and non-sporting attractions including the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and stage spectacular Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.
Sporting events attract both local and international visitors in droves and are crucial to the state’s economy, generating $1.8 billion and creating jobs for Victorians.
For more information on ticket scalping laws, go to the new website www.djpr.vic.gov.au/fair-go-for-fans
Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula
“We’re making sure everyone has a chance to enjoy the best sporting events on Victoria’s renowned events calendar by ensuring fans can access tickets at a fair price.”
“Events like the Boxing Day Test make a massive contribution to our state’s economy – that’s why we’re protecting this iconic event under our anti-scalping laws.”