No More Free Bets

Sad news really...

Until recently every time a betfair banner was sighted on a web page the offer of a $50 free bet was hard to miss. Offering free bets to new customers has been a very common marketing tool used by online bookmakers and betting exchanges, but not any more....

The following article comes from the Gambling Complaince website

Victoria Tightens Betting Ad Rules

15 Jun, 2009 / GamblingCompliance Ltd. / Andrew Gellatly

The Government of the Australian State of Victoria has now approved a range of new rules prohibiting the offer of free bets, and irresponsible advertising. The move comes as pressure for a nationwide approach to the regulation of online wagering is gathering support.

The changes, which were passed into law last week as part of the Justice Legislation Amendment Bill 2009, mean gambling operators will no longer be able to offer inducements to consumers to open betting accounts.Victoria has now joined New South Wales (NSW) and South Australia in banning online gaming companies from offering free-bet promotions.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Racing Rob Hulls said consumers would be receive better protection under the new legislation which applies to both Victorian and interstate bookmakers.

“It will now be an offence for a wagering service provider to offer any credit, voucher or reward as an inducement to open a betting account,” he said