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Australia’s top online gambling regulator has drawn a line in the sand.
The Northern Territory Racing and Wagering Commission (NTRWC) has suspended all gifts and hospitality from betting companies while it drafts new rules to strengthen transparency and rebuild public trust.
Watchdog aims to restore confidence
The move follows mounting criticism over ties between regulators and operators.
Commission chair Alastair Shields said the pause on accepting corporate hospitality is part of a broader plan to reinforce the regulator’s independence. The new code, expected to be finalised soon, will include clear guidelines for managing potential conflicts of interest and outline how officials should engage with betting operators.
Shields explained that the framework will “set up the structure” for decision-making to ensure outcomes remain free from bias or external influence.
Past controversies spark reform
Reports of cosy relationships with bookmakers prompted the crackdown.
The decision comes after the ABC’s Four Corners program revealed that some commissioners had accepted hospitality from betting firms, including tickets to the Darwin Cup, while others owned racehorses despite previous restrictions. The exposé reignited questions about the regulator’s neutrality and oversight capacity.
Critics argue that the NTRWC, which licenses over 40 online bookmakers, has struggled to maintain accountability within an industry worth more than A$50bn. Many of Australia’s largest betting operators are based in the Northern Territory due to its lower taxes and lighter regulations, making the watchdog’s independence even more critical.
Government review already underway
Authorities are now assessing the commission’s structure and powers.
The Northern Territory government confirmed that a full review of the NTRWC is in progress. The investigation will examine how the regulator handles conflicts of interest, hospitality offers, and the eligibility of its members. Findings from the review are expected to be made public next year.
Shields noted that while the upcoming code will set stricter rules on hospitality, it will not completely ban racehorse ownership. Instead, members will be required to declare all interests and step back from any decisions where a conflict could arise.
The reform marks a turning point for Australia’s gambling oversight landscape.
As the NTRWC works to rebuild its reputation, one question remains: can a regulator so close to the industry it oversees truly regain the public’s trust?
Source: Gambling News
