Entain, a leading global sports betting and gaming company, has been penalized by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) for unlawful in-play betting on a golf tournament. The ACMA found that Entain had breached the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (IGA) by allowing customers to place bets during a live golf tournament.
The IGA prohibits online gambling operators from offering in-play betting on sporting events, except in limited circumstances such as telephone betting. In-play betting allows customers to place bets on the outcome of a sporting event while it is still in progress, which can be particularly attractive to gamblers who want to take advantage of changing odds or events during the game.
The ACMA investigation found that Entain had offered in-play betting on a golf tournament in August 2019, despite not having the necessary exemptions under the IGA. The company had allowed customers to place bets on various outcomes during the tournament, including the winner of each hole and the overall winner.
As a result of the investigation, Entain has been fined AUD$9,000 for breaching the IGA. The company has also agreed to implement measures to prevent future breaches, including regular staff training and enhanced monitoring of its betting systems.
The ACMA’s action against Entain is part of a wider crackdown on unlawful online gambling in Australia. The regulator has recently taken action against several other operators for breaching the IGA, including Bet365, Ladbrokes, and Neds.
In a statement, ACMA Chair Nerida O’Loughlin emphasized the importance of enforcing the IGA to protect consumers from illegal online gambling. “The ACMA is committed to taking strong action against gambling companies that break the law,” she said. “We will continue to investigate and take enforcement action where necessary to ensure that Australians are protected from illegal online gambling.”
Entain has acknowledged the breach and cooperated with the ACMA’s investigation. In a statement, the company said it was committed to responsible gambling and would continue to work with regulators to ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.
The penalty imposed on Entain serves as a reminder to all online gambling operators of the importance of complying with the IGA and other relevant laws and regulations. Failure to do so can result in significant fines and damage to a company’s reputation, as well as potential harm to consumers. As the online gambling industry continues to grow, it is essential that operators prioritize responsible gambling and compliance with legal requirements to ensure a safe and fair environment for all customers.
