Victorian man wins $1 million in USA Mega Lotto

An Australian man’s life has been instantly changed after he won $1m in an overseas lottery despite missing out on the $789m jackpot.

The 28-year-old Victorian man correctly chose all five numbers in the main draw – 3, 29, 34, 37, and 38 – claiming the division 2 prize of $950,000.

Unfortunately, he was just one number off winning the Mega draw after number 16 instead of the winning number of 17 was randomly selected for him.

Despite the close call, the man said he was thrilled to win almost $1m.

“I’m still in shock,’’ he said.

“It’s a bit surreal at the moment.

“I’ve just been discussing my options, whether I could buy a house or an investment property.

“This literally changes my life.’’

The Lottery Office chief executive Jaclyn Wood said the man’s luck would be life changing.

“I am so excited for him, what a fantastic Christmas present,’’ Ms Wood said.

“The man was literally one number off winning the jackpot, but his division 2 prize is also a life-changing win.”

The USA Mega Lotto draw is set to be drawn again on Wednesday.

“I am crossing my fingers that an Aussie goes one number better in Wednesday’s USA Mega Lotto draw where the jackpot has leapt to $835m,” Ms Wood said.

It comes after a NSW man won $92,000 in September.

He also narrowly missed out on the major jackpot, having come within one number of winning the $226m in the USA Power Lotto.