An Australian online betting regulator is under pressure after accusations of industry bias, conflicts of interest, and regulatory failures.
The Northern Territory Racing and Wagering Commission licenses more than 40 bookmakers online, including big names like Sportsbet, Bet365, and Ladbrokes, which have an annual turnover of around AU$50 billion (US$33.0 billion).
Despite this responsibility, the Northern Territory Racing and Wagering Commission has no full-time staff, meets monthly, and has not released an annual report since 1993. Critics say it is too close to the industry it oversees, with several commissioners having ties to racing.
An Australian media investigation revealed delays of up to four years in handling complaints, failure to impose serious penalties, and the commission never canceling or suspending a bookmaker’s licence.
