Powerball hits AU$9 billion in prizes on 30th anniversary milestone
Powerball is marking 30 years in Australia with record-breaking prize money. The total division one winnings have now reached nearly AU$9 billion. This milestone coincides with a surge in jackpot wins across the country in 2026 alone. The first Powerball draw took place on May 23, 1996. Since then, the game has grown into one of Australia’s biggest lottery attractions. The largest jackpot ever recorded was AU$200 million, claimed on February 1, 2024.
This year, eight division one prizes have already been awarded. Four of those wins came from New South Wales, while Victoria saw three jackpot winners. The biggest prize so far in 2026 stands at AU$80 million. The current Powerball jackpot has climbed to AU$9 billion. If a winner emerges on Thursday, May 23, 2026—the anniversary of the first draw—the total payouts will surpass AU$9 billion for the first time in history.
The AU$9 billion threshold reflects Powerball’s enduring popularity in Australia. With multiple wins already in 2026, the game continues to generate life-changing payouts. The next draw could set a new record for total division one prizes awarded.
