Sportsbet Faces Lawsuit Over Alleged Illegal Live Betting Practices
A group of Australian gamblers has launched a class-action lawsuit against Sportsbet, accusing the company of operating an unlawful live betting service and seeking to reclaim millions of dollars in lost wagers.
The legal action, filed by Maurice Blackburn Lawyers in Victoria’s Supreme Court, alleges that Sportsbet’s “Fast Code” betting feature bypassed Australia’s strict regulations on in-game wagering.
Live Betting and Legal Loopholes
Elizabeth O’Shea, a principal at Maurice Blackburn, argues that Sportsbet exploited a legal grey area to facilitate live betting, a practice generally prohibited under Australian law unless wagers are placed via a telephone call.
Placing bets after a game has started is restricted in Australia, except when done entirely over the phone. We believe Sportsbet’s Fast Code system not only attempts to sidestep these protections against gambling harm but is also illegal because key details of the bet are communicated outside of a voice call.
Elizabeth O’Shea
What the Lawsuit Seeks
The lawsuit aims to recover losses incurred by gamblers over the past six years who placed live bets through the Fast Code service at the start of a sporting event. The case does not cover wagers on horse racing, greyhound racing, or harness events.
The Status of Online Gambling in Australia
Online betting and online casinos in Australia operate under a complex regulatory framework that distinguishes between sports betting and casino-style gambling. While online sports betting is legal and regulated by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), online casinos face stricter restrictions.
Under the Interactive Gambling Act 2001, offering real-money online casino games—such as slots, blackjack, and roulette—to Australian residents is illegal, with the exception of licensed operators providing sports betting and lotteries. However, many Australian players still access offshore online casinos, which operate in a legal grey area. I
n recent years, regulators have intensified efforts to block unlicensed gambling websites and enforce compliance among operators. Despite restrictions, the demand for online gambling continues to grow, with Australians increasingly seeking secure, responsible gaming platforms.
Responsible Gambling Support
For those in need of support, the National Gambling Helpline is available at 1800 858 858.
