The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has granted an authorisation allowing 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.
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.
Under the arrangements the Lottery Agents' Association of Victoria will represent members who wish to participate in collective negotiations.
"The Lottery Agents' Association of Victoria representing its members in collective negotiations is likely to result in a public benefit by giving lottery agents greater input into contract terms and conditions," Acting ACCC Chairman, Mr Peter Kell, said.
Tattersall's and Intralot will remain free to choose whether to deal with the collective bargaining group or continue to negotiate with lottery agents individually.
The ACCC's determination will be available from the ACCC website, via the Public registers and Authorisations and notifications registers links.