The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has officially cleared Tabcorp’s new “Tap” in-play betting service, ruling that the technology does not breach federal interactive gambling laws.
The investigation concluded that the service operates under a legal exemption for “place-based” retail operations.
How “Tap” Technology Operates
The system allows users inside licensed venues to build bets on their mobile app and finalize the transaction by physically tapping their smartphone against a dedicated in-venue station. ACMA determined this physical action mirrors traditional electronic betting terminals permitted under the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.
Balancing Innovation with Harm Minimization
While clearing the service, the regulator described the decision as “finely balanced,” noting the inherent risks of live betting. To mitigate these risks, Tabcorp utilizes a sophisticated Real Time Intervention (RTI) system into its Tap feature to identify and assist vulnerable customers.
ACMA emphasized the importance of the retail environment:
“Retail staff members can actively monitor customer behavior inside these supervised environments. Consequently, physical retail spaces provide vital safety nets for vulnerable sports bettors.”
Tabcorp must continue to submit regular safety reports and secure state-level approvals for any further national expansion.
