Tabcorp and Lottoland have been awarded dual 20-year licences to offer Keno games in the Australian state of Victoria.
The new licences, which take effect from 15 April 2022 and run to 2042, are a return to the pre-2012 structure of two authorised operators in the Australian state, before Tabcorp’s 10-year exclusivity.
While Tabcorp’s current licence only covers retail, the new agreement also stretches to cover digital services after the company paid an up-front fee of $25m.
Sue van der Merwe, Managing Director of Lotteries & Keno at Tabcorp, commented: “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.”
Lottoland also shared its enthusiasm over the deal as it announced its online platform KenoGo is gearing up for launch.
Nigel Birrell, CEO of Lottoland, added: “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.”
The move to award dual licences follows the Victorian government’s Keno Licence Review and subsequent invitation to apply for a Keno licence process.
