Sydney Court Imposes Fine on Unibet Operator for Unlawful Advertising

The Unibet operator, known as Betchoice, has been fined AU$60,000 (€36,462) by Sydney’s Downing Centre Local Court for engaging in illegal gambling advertising that targeted residents of New South Wales.

Following an investigation by the New South Wales Liquor & Gaming authority, it was discovered that Betchoice had released advertisements enticing individuals to open betting accounts through “price push” offers. These offers, which involve boosted odds, violated the gambling laws of New South Wales, as advertising them in this manner aimed to attract new users.

Jane Lin, Executive Director of Regulatory Operations & Enforcement at Liquor & Gaming NSW, commented on the issue, stating,

“Betting operators are obligated to ensure that all advertising complies with the gambling advertising laws of NSW. Inducements are known to increase the risk of gambling harm, so any violations are taken seriously.”

Having previously been convicted, Betchoice was fined $48,000 in July 2021 for violating betting legislation. The recent advertisements in question were specifically designed to entice people to partake in gambling activities by offering special or enhanced odds, which is a direct breach of the legislation.

During the court proceedings, Betchoice’s legal representatives pleaded guilty to two offenses and accepted a financial penalty of AU$30,000 (€18,231) per offense. Additionally, the company was instructed to cover the costs of the regulator’s investigation.

This marks the second instance in 2023 where the NSW Liquor & Gaming authority has taken legal action against a betting firm for illicit promotional activities. In April, Betr was fined for 14 separate infringements, resulting in total fines of AU$210,000 (€128,100).