Scalpers could be fined more than $480,000 if they try to resell tickets to the 2019 Australian Open after the Victorian government announced it will be listed as a "declared" event.
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All matches will be protected under the Major Events Act 2009 following "record-breaking" crowds this year, Minister for Tourism and Major Events John Eren said in a statement on Wednesday.
The move has been welcomed by Tennis Australia.
"Every year, disappointed fans miss out on experiencing the Australian Open due to unauthorised tickets. It has been a constant source of frustration and we welcome the decision to declare next year's event under the new legislation," CEO Craig Tiley said in a statement.
Under the legislation, tickets cannot be advertised for resale or resold for more than 10 per cent above the original value, with scalpers facing penalties from $806 up to $483,500.
Protection of tickets to the Australian Open follows similar declarations for Harry Potter and the Cursed Child theatre production, this year's AFL finals series, and next year's AFL Anzac Day blockbuster.
Australian Associated Press
