Deaf Lottery launches largest ever draw, increasing first prize to one million dollars

For the first time in its 37-year history, the Deaf Lottery is offering a one-million-dollar major prize in its Christmas draw, increasing the total prize pool by more than $300,000.

The increased first prize for lottery 227 is a thank you to the thousands of Australians who continue to support Deaf Connect in its delivery of essential services to Deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing people nationwide. This lottery is the last of eight draws for 2025, with the winner to be announced on February 5 2026.

The lottery’s major prize has been $800,000 since 2021, and the one-million-dollar winner will receive their prize in the same flexible way – with the option to tailor it as cash, gold bullion, vehicles, property and more.

Deaf Connect CEO Brett Casey said the introduction of a one-million-dollar major prize reflects the commitment of supporters who continue to strengthen Australia’s Deaf community.

“For more than three decades, the Deaf Lottery has been grounded in one idea – that every ticket contributes to opportunities and services for Deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing Australians,” Mr Casey said.

“As the Lottery has evolved, so too has the impact it delivers. Supporters help expand access, increase community connection, and build pathways that empower Deaf Australians well beyond the draw itself.

“Introducing a million-dollar major prize is our way of recognising that commitment. One Australian will start the year with a life-changing opportunity – and their involvement will help drive meaningful change nationwide.”

Deaf Connect Head of Fundraising and Operations, Paul Stockwell, said the move to a one-million-dollar prize marks a significant milestone for the charity art union.

“What continues to set the Deaf Lottery apart is the flexibility offered to winners,” Mr Stockwell said.

“We’re the only Australian lottery that allows supporters to choose a prize tailored to suit their lifestyle – whether that’s a big change, a small upgrade, or a long-overdue adventure.  

“Our organisation has seen everything from ATVs, motorbikes and campervan trips around Australia, to people purchasing an apartment for an early retirement, or setting aside savings for their kids. Every prize is designed to help move life forward in the way that matters most to them.

“Behind each draw is a dedicated team of Deaf Lottery staff who are calling dealerships, liaising with travel agents, and making sure our winners have everything they need to achieve the dreams that a win like this makes possible.

“For Lottery 227, we can’t wait to celebrate that exciting new chapter – and we invite the rest of Australia to join us in celebrating this million-dollar milestone.”

The one-million-dollar draw will begin with Lottery 227, opening on 15 December 2025. This lottery also includes two bonus draws offering an additional $20,000 in giveaways. Bonus Draw 1 runs from 15–31 December, and Bonus Draw 2 runs from 1–15 January. The winner of Lottery 227 will be announced on Thursday, 5 February 2026.  

ABOUT DEAF CONNECT 

Deaf Connect is the largest whole-of-life service provider and social impact organisation for Deaf, Deafblind and hard of hearing Australians. Deaf Connect stands with the Deaf community to build capacity and influence social change, while paying respect to Deaf history, culture and language.      

Deaf Connect is the largest employer of Deaf and hard-of-hearing people in Australia, a registered provider under the National Disability Insurance Scheme and an approved provider of in-home care for seniors. The organisation is also the country's largest Auslan interpreting agency and provides training in sign language through their RTO (RTO Provider Number 41192).