Tabcorp Holdings Limited has been fined AU$158,400 by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) for violating the Interactive Gambling Act of 2001 (IGA) by accepting online in-play sports bets. The penalties come after an investigation found that Tabcorp allowed 426 in-play wagers across 32 tennis matches between February 2024 and June 2025, despite in-play betting being prohibited online in Australia.

The Breach and Tabcorp’s Response

Under the IGA, online sports betting operators are only allowed to accept in-play wagers in person or over the phone, not via online platforms. When the breaches were discovered, Tabcorp voided the 426 in-play bets and refunded customers. The company explained that the violations were caused by system and communication issues with a third-party provider, which was responsible for managing the betting processes. The ACMA accepted this explanation but still imposed the fine due to the serious nature of the breach, marking this as the third instance since 2021 that Tabcorp had violated in-play betting regulations.

Despite the company’s attempt to explain the situation, ACMA member Carolyn Lidgerwood emphasized that “the law is clear and wagering services must have processes in place to prevent illegal in-play bets from being accepted.” In ACMA’s press release, Lidgerwood further noted that although third-party providers play a role in managing sports betting operations, it is ultimately the responsibility of the operator to ensure compliance with the law. She expressed concern over the length of time it took for Tabcorp to identify and address the issue, highlighting the need for the company to improve its practices moving forward.

This fine is part of a broader pattern of regulatory issues for Tabcorp. Just months before this incident, the company was fined AU$112,680 for failing to comply with BetStop rules, which are designed to protect individuals who register for self-exclusion from gambling. Additionally, in 2025, Tabcorp received a significant AU$4 million fine for breaching the Spam Act by sending 5,700 unlawful messages to customers in its VIP program. These breaches further highlight the ongoing compliance challenges that the company faces.

The latest fine for in-play betting violations is particularly noteworthy as it follows Tabcorp’s efforts in New South Wales to launch an in-venue, in-app betting trial. While the trial received regulatory approval to offer in-play betting at select venues, it does not extend to online sports betting. Tabcorp’s failure to comply with national laws regarding online in-play betting could have serious implications for its operations across Australia.

Comprehensive Undertaking and Future Expectations

In addition to the financial penalty, Tabcorp has entered into an enforceable undertaking, which requires the company to conduct a comprehensive review of its systems and processes related to closing betting on tennis matches. The company must also provide regular updates to the ACMA on its progress in addressing these issues.

This latest penalty underscores the importance of strict compliance with gambling laws in Australia, where authorities are increasingly vigilant in ensuring that operators adhere to regulations. Tabcorp’s failure to meet these standards could lead to further scrutiny, with potential legal actions through the Federal Court if there are any future breaches.

The ACMA’s response to this issue serves as a reminder to all wagering operators that they must prioritize compliance, particularly when it comes to prohibitions like in-play online betting. With a growing trend of regulatory crackdowns, the gambling industry in Australia will need to ensure that they are prepared to meet the legal requirements set forth by the government.