Who’s Really Regulating Australia’s Bookies? The tiny team with massive power and the growing calls for reform.
If you’ve ever wondered who’s actually in charge of regulating Australia’s massive online bookmaking industry, the answer might surprise you, its just six people in the Northern Territory.
Yep, six.
Despite the fact that companies like Sportsbet, Ladbrokes, and Bet365 rake in billions of dollars every year, they’re all licensed and overseen by the NT Racing and Wagering Commission (NTRWC), a small regulator tucked away in Darwin that’s been described as a “toothless tiger” by critics.
Why NT?
Bookies choose to operate out of the NT because it offers lower taxes, lighter regulation, and a more “friendly” licensing environment. In fact, the NTRWC acts as a kind of unofficial national regulator, because most major online bookmakers are based there.
The problem? The commission is tiny, under-resourced, and some argue, too close to the industry it’s supposed to regulate.
Gifts, Grey Areas & Growing Pressure
Recent reports revealed that the chair of the NTRWC, Alastair Shields, accepted gifts from gambling companies, including tickets and hospitality at the Darwin Cup. While Shields insists everything was properly declared and above board, the optics haven’t gone down well.
NT politicians are now calling for a total ban on gifts from the gambling industry to regulators. Greens MLA Kat McNamara is planning to introduce a motion to that effect, stating: “It’s just common sense.”
Critics say it’s hard to believe the NTRWC can be truly independent when commissioners are receiving perks from the very companies they oversee.
What About That Gambling Ad Ban?
Meanwhile, on the federal stage, there’s been a lot of talk, but not as much action, on cracking down on gambling ads. After a major parliamentary inquiry recommended a total ban on online gambling advertising, the government said they’d act. But the legislation was quietly dropped last year and won’t be picked up again until after the next election.
This delay has raised eyebrows, especially since it’s been revealed that politicians accepted almost $250,000 in free sports tickets from leagues lobbying against the ad ban.
Coincidence? Maybe. But it’s not a good look.
What Does This Mean for Bonusbank Members?
From a matched betting perspective, it’s worth keeping a close eye on this space. While the current NT setup has made it easier for bookies to operate nationally, that could change if pressure for federal regulation grows.
There’s also the potential for a shift in how gambling is advertised, which could affect promos, sponsorships, and even how new customers are onboarded.
The short version: Given the pace at which things happen in this industry, the upcoming election, and the amount of money that gambling lobbying groups have to spend, any changes that could affect matched bettors are probably still quite a way off.