Sidestepped limits on live bets
The Australian Communication Agency will launch a probe of U.K.-based international bookmakers William Hill and Ladbrokes after the operators introduced new betting mechanisms that allegedly sidestepped restrictions on live betting.
According to SBC News, in April the bookies introduced “click-to-call” features which enabled players to connect to live sports betting markets via computer microphones. Australian regulations prohibit licensed operators from offering live sports markets to consumers, though wagers on live sports may be processed over the phone.
William Hill and Ladbrokes said their “click-to-call” option does not violate the law. But Senator Nick Xenophon said, “If it is not illegal, William Hill and Ladbrokes are going against the spirit of the legislation.
“Basically they are giving the middle finger to the Interactive Gambling Act,” Xenophon said. “How much money do these bookmakers want to make from problem gamblers?”
