The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has issued a stern $158,400 fine (approx. $103,000 USD) to Tabcorp following an investigation into illegal “in-play” sports wagering.
The regulator found that the betting giant accepted hundreds of illegal bets on tennis matches that had already commenced.
The Tech Failure Trap
Under the Interactive Gambling Act of 2001, digital platforms in Australia are strictly prohibited from offering live betting on ongoing matches to prevent impulsive wagering. The investigation monitored 426 illegal bets across 32 tennis matches between February 2024 and June 2025.
Tabcorp admitted to the breaches but attributed the error to a third-party data provider that failed to send “stop-betting” signals on time. While Tabcorp voided the bets and refunded customers, the ACMA rejected the “tech error” as a valid excuse for the lapse in oversight.
“Enforceable Undertakings” and Future Risk
This marks Tabcorp’s third breach since 2021, prompting the regulator to demand more than just a financial settlement. Carolyn Lidgerwood, an ACMA member, expressed concern over the company’s reaction time and lack of internal monitoring.
“A license holder holds the ultimate responsibility,” Lidgerwood stated. “The regulator has warned that they will not accept another misconception.”
Tabcorp has now entered into a legally binding “enforceable undertaking.” The company must overhaul its technology, implement more rigorous market-closing protocols for tennis, and provide regular progress reports. Any further violations could result in prosecution in the Federal Court, where penalties are significantly higher.
