ACCC considers collective bargaining by Victorian lottery agents in the public interest

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission proposes to allow Victorian lottery agents to collectively negotiate the terms and conditions of their contracts with the two companies licensed to operate lotteries in Victoria, Tattersall's and Intralot.

The Lottery Agents' Association of Victoria will represent members who wish to participate in collective negotiations.

"Collective bargaining by lottery agents is likely to result in a public benefit by giving lottery agents greater input into contract terms and conditions," ACCC Chairman, Mr Graeme Samuel said.

"The ACCC notes that the group will not engage in any collective boycott activity and Tattersall's and Intralot remain free to choose whether or not to deal with the collective bargaining group."

Authorisation provides immunity from court action for conduct that might otherwise raise concerns under the competition provisions of the Trade Practices Act 1974. Broadly, the ACCC may grant an authorisation when it is satisfied that the public benefit from the conduct outweighs any public detriment.

The ACCC's draft determination will be available from the ACCC website, via the Public Registers and Authorisations and notifications registers links.

The ACCC invites submissions from interested parties in relation to the draft determination before making its final decision.  Parties wishing to make submissions should do so by 22 May 2009.  Please refer to the website for further information about making a submission to the ACCC.