Betting provider fined $60,000 for illegal gambling ads

The penalty was imposed by a Magistrate at Downing Centre Local Court on 31 March, after determining that the ads failed to meet standards of decency, dignity and good taste.

The breaches, published by Ryman Racing’s sub-brand PuntHub in October 2023, involved five posts across Facebook and Instagram.

Under the Betting and Racing Act 1998, gambling ads which are accessible to persons in NSW must adhere to strict requirements designed to protect the community from inappropriate content and potential gambling harm.

Liquor & Gaming NSW (L&GNSW) Acting Executive Director of Regulatory Operations, Bernadette Beard, said the decision highlights the consequences of breaching the state’s gambling advertising laws.

“This is the first time a wagering operator in NSW has been prosecuted and convicted for publishing ads which offend standards of decency, dignity and good taste,” she said.

“L&GNSW actively monitors gambling advertising across all platforms and will not hesitate to take enforcement action where necessary.

“This is a serious penalty. I would urge betting providers take note and ensure the standards in the Act are being met in their advertising.”

The public can report concerns about gambling advertising via the L&GNSW website.