Northern Territory Gambling Watchdogs Halt Gifts from Betting Companies Amid Review

Temporary Ban on Gifts Amid Ethics Overhaul

The leading online gambling regulator in Australia’s Northern Territory has decided to suspend accepting gifts and perks from betting companies. This measure is part of an ongoing effort to establish new ethical standards and restore trust among the public.

Commitment to Enhanced Independence and Transparency

The Northern Territory Racing and Wagering Commission (NTRWC), responsible for licensing over 40 online bookmakers, announced it will refrain from receiving any hospitality or gifts from the industry during the current review process. This action addresses growing concerns about close relationships between the regulator and the gambling companies it oversees.

Commission Chair Alastair Shields emphasized that this ban on gifts is one of several steps aimed at reinforcing the agency’s impartiality and transparency. The forthcoming code of conduct will introduce clear guidelines to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure all decisions involving betting operators are made without bias or external influence.

This update follows investigative reports revealing instances where commissioners accepted hospitality from bookmakers, including event tickets. Additionally, some commissioners have been found to own or have owned racehorses, which poses potential conflict concerns. Although racehorse ownership was once prohibited, it is now permitted under revised regulations.

Concerns About Regulatory Authority and Effectiveness

Critics argue that the NTRWC’s connections to the industry undermine the credibility of Australia’s main gambling regulator. Located in Darwin, this body oversees a $50 billion sector, with many major online betting firms choosing the territory due to its favorable tax and legal environment.

Consumer advocacy groups have long raised issues about the commission’s limited authority, citing its part-time membership and perceived slow response to complaints, minimal penalties for rule violations, and lack of transparency. These factors have fueled calls for significant reforms.

The Northern Territory government has initiated a review of the commission’s practices, focusing on conflict of interest policies, acceptance of gifts, and member eligibility criteria. A public report on the review’s findings is expected next year. While the upcoming code will maintain the ban on accepting hospitality, it will not prohibit commissioners from owning racehorses, provided they fully disclose ownership interests and recuse themselves when necessary to maintain accountability.