Australian sports betting site BlueBet has been fined AU$50,000 by the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) for breaching gambling advertising regulations.
Following a complaint from a member of the public, an investigation was launched into the placement of BlueBet advertisements on digital billboards at various locations around Melbourne.
The company was found guilty of 43 charges related to displaying gambling advertisements on or above public roads, contravening the Gambling Regulation Act 2003.
The breaches occurred over a two-week period in August and September 2022
BlueBet’s defence was that they were unaware of the breaches, and while no conviction was recorded, Magistrate Greg Thomas noted the high degree of negligence exhibited by BlueBet.
“Gambling advertising has no place on public roads where it is readily visible to children and other vulnerable groups. These places are especially difficult to avoid as part of day-to-day activities. This decision sends a clear message to wagering providers that flout these protections for our community,” said VGCCC CEO Annette Kimmitt.
BlueBet has implemented changes to prevent similar incidents and has cooperated with VGCCC throughout the process.
BlueBet recently announced plans to acquire betr as it continues to scale its business and increase its market share in the Australian sports betting industry.
A recent financial report stated that BlueBet's turnover increased 26.1% year-on-year during the third quarter of its 2024 financial year, driven by improvements in BlueBet’s sports, horse racing and greyhound racing.
