NextBet has launched its operations in Australia by acquiring Brisbane-based bookmaker CrossBet, marking the first move in a larger plan to shake up the country’s middle-tier betting scene. The deal plants NextBet firmly in the market and signals its intent to grow by snapping up smaller competitors. Founded in 2020, CrossBet made its name with […]
Australia
Gambling Industry Under Fire for Cozy Ties with Aussie Politicians
Australia’s gambling lobby is facing fresh scrutiny after revelations that Responsible Wagering Australia (RWA), which represents major online bookmakers like Sportsbet, Bet365, and PointsBet, holds a paid membership with the Australian Parliament Sports Club. Critics say the move blurs the line between casual networking and political influence — a concern that’s drawing backlash from MPs […]
MIXI Completes $430M Takeover of PointsBet After Bidding War
MIXI Australia has taken majority control of PointsBet in a $430 million deal, securing 66.43% of the company’s shares after months of high-stakes maneuvering. The acquisition, completed on September 12 at AU$1.25 per share, gives MIXI the decisive influence over one of Australia’s most recognized sportsbook and online casino brands. From Bidding Skirmish to Full […]
Influencers Face AU$2.5M Fines in Crackdown on Illegal Gambling Promotions
Australian regulators are tightening the reins on social media influencers who promote illegal gambling, warning that steep fines await those who break the law. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has issued a direct message: any influencer caught advertising or facilitating access to unlicensed gambling platforms could face civil penalties up to AU$2.5 million. […]
Victoria Advances Mandatory Pre-commitment Gambling Reform
Bill Passes Lower House, Moving to Legislative Council The Victorian Parliament has made a significant stride toward gambling reform with the passage of the Gambling Legislation Amendment (Pre-commitment and Carded Play) Bill 2024. The bill cleared the Legislative Assembly with a 53-25 vote and now advances to the Legislative Council for further consideration. Key Reform […]
JPMorgan Exits Star Entertainment Amid Regulatory and Financial Struggles
Major Stakeholder Pulls Out as Australian Casino Operator Faces Mounting Challenges In a move highlighting growing concerns within the gaming sector, JPMorgan Chase has sold off its entire stake in Star Entertainment, Australia’s second-largest casino operator. The announcement, confirmed in a recent exchange filing, revealed that the investment banking giant had divested its 5.09% voting […]
High-Stakes Gamble Backfires: Singaporean Tycoon Faces Massive Debt to Australian Casino
A Costly Wager The glittering lights of The Star Gold Coast casino in Queensland, Australia, recently witnessed a high-stakes drama that culminated in a landmark legal ruling. Dr. Yew Choy Wong, a prominent Singaporean businessman, has been ordered by the Supreme Court of Brisbane to settle an eye-watering gambling debt of AU$38 million (US$25.3 million) […]
ACMA Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal Gambling and Affiliate Marketing Websites in Australia
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is boosting its efforts to protect Australian consumers by directing internet service providers (ISPs) to block additional illegal gambling and affiliate marketing websites. These actions stem from investigations revealing that several platforms were operating in violation of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001, offering unlicensed and prohibited gambling services […]
Australasian Gaming Expo 2024: A Pinnacle Event for Gaming Professionals
A Grand Showcase of Innovation and Expertise The Australasian Gaming Expo (AGE) 2024, set to unfold from August 13-15 at the ICC Sydney, is poised to be a landmark event for gaming professionals across Australia, New Zealand, and beyond. Spanning an impressive 19,000 square meters, this premier expo is more than just a display of […]
Australia and Curacao Near Breakthrough in Combat Against Illegal Online Gambling
Australia’s battle against illegal online gambling is taking a turn, with the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) spearheading this effort beyond its borders. The ACMA has been vocal about needing more support from the Curacao Gaming Control Board (CGCB) to curb the influx of illegal gambling sites targeting Australians. Efforts so far have led […]
