South Australian gamblers will be forced to absorb the cost of a “point of consumption” tax being considered in South Australia, Sportsbet said in a press statement.
The betting agency says placing a bet will be more expensive for gamblers than in any other Australian state once the new tax is introduced next year. Sportsbet has sent messages to gamblers through email urging them to oppose the new taxes.
“The South Australian Government has rejected offers for a sensible, common sense discussion about this issue,” the agency said, adding the tax will mean worse odds, fewer promotions and less money for gamblers.
“We need your help to send a strong message to your local MP, that an additional tax that punishes South Australian punters is not acceptable,” the statement said.
Sportsbet is one of several groups and betting agencies conducting a media campaign against the new tax.
According to a report in Asia Gaming Brief, the tax will be the first time an Australian jurisdiction has targeted betting companies based on where the bets are made, rather than the location of the operator. The tax will be calculated as 15 percent on the net wagering revenue of all betting companies, with the government estimating to raise around $7 million a year in new revenue.
