Powerball changes come into effect ahead of Thursday’s $30 million draw

Millions of Australians who buy Powerball tickets will feel the effect of changes coming into play for tonight’s $30 million draw.

While the game itself hasn’t changed, the price of tickets and the size winnings have gone up.

The cost of a standard Powerball entry increased by 20 cents last Friday, plus agent’s commission.

As a result of the price increase, The Lott said the Division 1 base prize will increase from $4 million to $5 million.

Additionally, players can expect bigger prizes across Divisions 2 to 9.

“Customers have told us that they want the chance to win bigger jackpots more often,” The Lott said.

“Following a comprehensive review, these changes have been introduced to enhance the overall player experience across all prize divisions, including increasing the potential for more large jackpot events.”

The changes, however, will not increase your likelihood of winning, with the chances of scoring the Division 1 jackpot remaining 1 in 134,490,400, based on one standard game.

To win division one, you need to select all seven winning numbers plus the Powerball number in a single game panel.

Aussie dad’s $25m win

Last month, an Alice Springs dad brought home a $25 million Powerball win.

The prize is believed to be the biggest individual lottery win in the Northern Territory, according to The Lott.

“I had no idea. The missus actually reminded me to check my Powerball ticket this morning. I grabbed the ticket, which was sitting in my ute this entire time, and checked it in front of her,” the winner said.

“We couldn’t believe our eyes when we saw we had won $25 million. My wife nearly fainted.

“We just kept checking it over and over, and it kept coming up with $25 million.

“I immediately burst into tears.

“I’m going to continue to work (and) contribute to the workforce, but it means I’ll be able to pay off my bills and be mortgage-free. I’ll also be able to look after the children and set them up for life.”