Sportsbet fined by New South Wales authorities for advertising infractions

New South Wales’ authorities have cracked down on the display of illicit gambling advertisements by issuing Sportsbet with an AUS$10,000 (£5350) fine.
It demonstrates that affiliates operating in Australia and other countries around the world need to be fully aware of regulations that are particular to that jurisdiction. Paddy Power Betfair-owned Sportsbet are set to pay the fine, plus an additional $7300 in legal costs as ordered by the New South Wales’ Magistrate.
The advert in question displayed cartoon depictions of two male characters with their thumbs up, alongside the text: “Refer a Friend – Get a $100 Bonus Bet for every friend you refer to join sportsbet.com.au (excl. VIC, NSW, WA & SA) Terms and Conditions.”
The new fine, according to the authorities, is hoped to act as a deterrent for all gambling operators in ensuring that they are compliant with state laws.
The investigation was carried out by Liquor & Gaming NSW, a division within the Department of Industry which is tasked with overseeing the development, implementation and integrity of the overall regulatory framework with regard to alcohol and gaming across New South Wales.
New South Wales law prevents gambling operators from creating and displaying advertisements which display “any inducement to participate, or participate frequently, in any gambling activity (including an inducement to open a betting account)”
The ruling detailed: “Under new laws that came into effect in July 2018, wagering operators found guilty of promoting inducements to gamble face fines of up to $55,000 per offence and company directors can be criminally prosecuted.”
The Magistrate noted that “the NSW Parliament has increased penalties for illegal gambling advertising, and this raised the need for general deterrence.”