Violation of NSW Gambling Laws
Wagering company Betchoice, operating as Unibet, has been convicted and ordered to pay fines of $60,000 plus costs for offering illegal gambling inducements to residents of New South Wales (NSW). The penalties were imposed by Sydney’s Downing Centre Local Court on 22nd May, following a breach of NSW gambling laws.
Investigation into Unibet Promotions
Liquor & Gaming NSW conducted an investigation into the Unibet promotions, which included inducements for individuals to engage in gambling activities and open betting accounts. The promotions featured “price push” offers, which involved boosted or special odds. However, under the NSW Betting and Racing Act, publishing a gambling advertisement that includes inducements to participate in gambling activities or open a betting account is considered an offense.
Inducements and the Risk of Gambling Harm
Jane Lin, Executive Director Regulatory Operations & Enforcement at Liquor & Gaming NSW, highlighted that the Unibet promotions clearly offered inducements to gamble or open a betting account. The use of inducements is known to increase the risk of gambling harm, making it imperative to take breaches of such regulations seriously. Betting operators have a responsibility to ensure that all their advertising complies with NSW laws on gambling advertising.
Prior Convictions and Penalties
This is not the first time that Betchoice has faced legal consequences for breaching betting legislation. In July 2021, the company was fined $48,000 for previous violations. In the recent case, the advertisements in question were specifically designed to entice individuals to engage with gambling products using special or enhanced odds, which constitutes a breach of the legislation.
Compliance and the Consequences
Betchoice pleaded guilty to two offenses under section 33H(1) of the Betting and Racing Act 1998. As a result, the company was fined $30,000 for each offense and ordered to pay the regulator’s costs. This case emphasizes the importance of compliance with gambling advertising laws and the consequences that arise from failing to adhere to these regulations. It serves as a reminder that betting operators must uphold their obligations and ensure that their advertising practices align with the legal requirements set forth by NSW authorities.
Betchoice’s conviction and subsequent fines for offering illegal gambling inducements in NSW highlight the commitment of regulatory authorities to enforce gambling laws. The investigation into Unibet promotions sheds light on the need to protect individuals from potential gambling harm caused by inducements. It is essential for betting operators to comply with advertising regulations and prioritize responsible gambling practices. The penalties imposed on Betchoice serve as a deterrent and reinforce the importance of adherence to the law in the gambling industry.