The legality of betting on horse racing and dog racing
In New South Wales (NSW), betting on horse racing and dog racing is a legal form of gambling and is regulated by Betting and Racing Act 1998, Totalizator Act 1997, and the relevant industry rules Racing NSW, Harness Racing NSW and Greyhound Racing NSW. These laws ensure the integrity of the competition, the transparency of betting and the protection of participants from fraud.
1. Types of permitted rates
Betting rates - accepted via TAB (Totalisator Agency Board) and distributed according to the pool principle.
Fixed odds - offered by licensed bookmakers.
Multi-rates and special markets, if approved by the regulator.
Live racing bets are limited by federal law - they can only be made by phone or at the venue.
2. Operator licensing
Betting is allowed only to licensed bookmakers registered in NSW or other Australian jurisdictions with the right to work in the state.
Operators must be tested for financial stability, honesty and compliance with responsible play standards.
All betting systems are required to use certified software and transfer data to the regulator.
3. Player restrictions and protection
The minimum age for participation is 18 years.
Ban on betting for jockeys, trainers, horse/dog owners and other insiders.
Restrictions on advertising aimed at minors.
Providing players with self-exclusion tools and limits.
4. Control and supervision
Racing NSW and Harness Racing NSW regulate thoroughbred and draft horse racing.
Greyhound Racing NSW controls dog racing.
Liquor & Gaming NSW and federal agencies enforce betting rules.
Regular checks and investigations of suspicious bets to prevent contractual runs.
5. Sanctions for violations
Penalties and license suspension for non-compliance.
Disqualification of competitors in case of violations of the rules.
Criminal liability in case of proven fraud or money laundering.
Conclusion:
1. Types of permitted rates
Betting rates - accepted via TAB (Totalisator Agency Board) and distributed according to the pool principle.
Fixed odds - offered by licensed bookmakers.
Multi-rates and special markets, if approved by the regulator.
Live racing bets are limited by federal law - they can only be made by phone or at the venue.
2. Operator licensing
Betting is allowed only to licensed bookmakers registered in NSW or other Australian jurisdictions with the right to work in the state.
Operators must be tested for financial stability, honesty and compliance with responsible play standards.
All betting systems are required to use certified software and transfer data to the regulator.
3. Player restrictions and protection
The minimum age for participation is 18 years.
Ban on betting for jockeys, trainers, horse/dog owners and other insiders.
Restrictions on advertising aimed at minors.
Providing players with self-exclusion tools and limits.
4. Control and supervision
Racing NSW and Harness Racing NSW regulate thoroughbred and draft horse racing.
Greyhound Racing NSW controls dog racing.
Liquor & Gaming NSW and federal agencies enforce betting rules.
Regular checks and investigations of suspicious bets to prevent contractual runs.
5. Sanctions for violations
Penalties and license suspension for non-compliance.
Disqualification of competitors in case of violations of the rules.
Criminal liability in case of proven fraud or money laundering.
Conclusion:
- Betting on horse racing and dog racing in NSW is entirely legal, provided it is accepted by licensed operators and conducted within the current legislation. Strict supervision and rules are aimed at maintaining the integrity of the competition, protecting players and eliminating illegal practices.
