Aussies are mad about sports, so it’s no surprise there are heaps of superb Aussie betting sites with excellent promos, great odds and top-tier live coverage. Even though it can be tricky to know where to start, there’s no need to feel like you’re lost on a bushwalk. We’ll cover everything you need to find the right bookie, so you’re all set to give it a red-hot go.
- 1 Top Bookmakers We Recommend for Betting in Australia
- 2 Our Favourite Australian Sports Betting Sites Reviewed
- 3 Online Betting in Australia Explained
- 4 Is Online Betting Legal in Australia?
- 5 Choosing a Good Australian Betting Site
- 6 Popular Payment Methods for Australian Bookmakers
- 7 Live Betting in Australia
- 8 How to Bet Online in Australia
- 9 Other Country Betting Guides – Click Each Flag To Learn More
- 10 ThePuntersPage Final Say
- 11 Australia Betting Resources
- 12 Best Australian Betting Sites FAQs
Top Bookmakers We Recommend for Betting in Australia
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Various Sports Offers 18+ Full T&Cs apply. Bet Responsibly. GambleAware.org #ad |
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Various Sports Offers 18+ Full T&Cs apply. Bet Responsibly. GambleAware.org #ad |
Our Favourite Australian Sports Betting Sites Reviewed
With plenty of new Aussie bookies to choose from, how do you kick things off? A ripper way is to start with the absolute best. So, here’s the gold standard of Australian betting sites for you to check out.
1. bet365 – Best Variety on Aussie Sports
Australian sports betting sites can be seen as international operators who’ve decided to have a crack in the land down under. While some bookies don’t change much, leaving Aussie leagues a bit left out, bet365 offers the best variety of Aussie sports markets – from Gold Coast races to A-League Soccer.
For example, a football game between Melbourne Victory and Western United FC featured over 300 markets, including Asian lines, corners/cards, flash bets, goals, half-time or player bets. Cricket fans can bet on just about anything, whereas Aussie Rules outrights are up well ahead of time. Bet365 isn’t just one of the most secure, reputable and promo-friendly sites around – they also offer unbeatable odds for Aussie sports.
- Hundreds of markets on top Australian events
- Early outrights available
- Easy same-game multis
- Fantastic coverage of Aussie horse racing
- Early soccer payouts
- Live chat can take a while to respond
- Old-school design won’t suit everyone
2. Ladbrokes – Live Coverage is an Absolute Stunner
Live betting can be a bit tricky in Australia, but Ladbrokes makes it easy. There are dozens of markets on cricket, soccer, golf, e-sports and basketball. Plus, the coverage is fair dinkum awesome too. You’ll get access to tons of stats and livestreams, especially for horse racing, and all you need to watch is a positive balance.
One of the most important things for Aussie bookmakers is how you place live bets. Since you’ve got to call to do it legally, Ladbrokes makes it hassle-free with a 24/7 phone line manned by friendly staff who are ready to take your bets. Fair go, you can’t ask for better than that.
- Smooth, reliable livestreaming
- Exceptional horse racing betting options
- Loads of Esports odds
- 24/7 phone line for live betting
- Consistently competitive odds
- Occasional technical hiccup on browser
- Positive balance required for livestreaming
3. Unibet – Top Choice for Newcomers
If you’re new to online betting and find it a bit daunting, don’t stress. Unibet has the most user-friendly betting site and apps in Australia. You can sign up in under a minute (including downloading the app on iOS or Android), the site’s a breeze to navigate, banking is instant, and withdrawals can hit your account within the hour when you use PayID or bank transfer.
They even got educational tools to help sharpen your betting game. Unibet’s “Easy Form” cuts through the complicated stats, breaking them into bite-sized chunks so you can easily check everything, from a front-runner’s form to track conditions. On top of that, there are tips, previews and live yard coverage, making it simple for anyone to bet like a pro—even if you’re just starting out.
- “Easy Form” feature makes stat analysis a breeze
- Livestreaming on NBA, NFL, MLB and NHL games
- Exclusive betting tips on top events
- Stellar mobile option
- Comprehensive Australian racing markets
- Promotions can’t be seen until you sign up
- European leagues better covered elsewhere
Online Betting in Australia Explained
Australia’s sports betting scene is governed by a solid legal framework that keeps things fair and safe. The Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (IGA) sets the rules, banning unlicensed services but allowing licensed online sports betting. To operate here, Oz bookmakers need to hold a license from an Australian state or territory. While you can’t place live bets online, you can still get in on the action by calling in.
Betting’s a massive part of Aussie culture – and it’s growing! With mobile apps, loads of betting markets and the rise of live betting, the gambling scene has exploded. Around 60% of Australian adults place bets at least once a year, according to the Australian National University. What’s more, tastes are evolving. Aussies are still all about AFL, NRL and cricket, but American sports are also on the up, with bookies covering major events like the Super Bowl and NBA.
Despite strict rules, the betting landscape is thriving. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) ensures everything’s on the level and that punters have all the tools for a responsible betting experience.
Aussie Rules Betting in Australia
The energy of Aussie Rules is unmatched, with AFL games typically drawing tens of thousands of fans per game. The annual AFL Grand Final is a spectacle that unites the country, with over 100,000 spectators filling the MCG and millions tuning in on TV.
Memorable moments like Richmond’s 2019 premiership, marking their second flag in three years after decades in the wilderness, and Sydney Swans’ 2005 drought-breaking win after 72 years, highlight the drama surrounding this iconic sport.
Its cultural significance is undeniable, with events like the Anzac Day clash between Collingwood and Essendon further cementing its importance. Naturally, any Australian online bookmakers worth their salt will offer Aussie Rules, from the major showdowns to local scrapes.
Soccer Betting in Australia
The rise of soccer in Australia has been marked by growing support for the A-League, with clubs like Sydney FC and Melbourne Victory attracting strong attendance figures. The A-League Grand Final remains a key event, with over 20,000 fans attending the 2024 decider in Sydney.
On the international stage, the Socceroos’ historic 2022 World Cup campaign, where they reached the Round of 16, captured the nation’s attention. Events like the FIFA Women’s World Cup, co-hosted by Australia in 2023, have further cemented soccer’s growing relevance.
A historic World Cup encounter in more ways than one
Australia took on Argentina in the 2022 round-of-16, which sadly for the Socceroos saw them lose 2-1 after a valiant effort. It was the first time Australia reached the knockout stages since 2006, but it also marked Lionel Messi’s 1000th game—where, in true Messi style, he nailed the opening goal.
Cricket Betting in Australia
Summer in Australia means cricket, with popular games drawing crowds of 70,000 plus, and the 2024 Test series against India setting a record crowd of 373,691. The Big Bash League attracts millions of viewers each season, with rivalries between top teams like the Sydney Sixers and Perth Scorchers keeping fans engaged.
Australia’s dominance in cricket is showcased by iconic moments, such as the 2015 Cricket World Cup victory at home or the 2023 Women’s T20 World Cup win, cementing the nation’s love for the game. The Ashes is also one of the most anticipated showdowns in all of sport.
This is reflected across the best Australian betting sites, as it holds a central place alongside Aussie Rules and horse racing. Cricket’s depth means you can enjoy a wide range of live and pre-match odds.
Basketball Betting in Australia
The rapid growth of basketball popularity in OZ has been fuelled by Australian talent making waves in the NBA, with players like Patty Mills, Ben Simmons and Josh Giddey inspiring new generations. The 2021 Tokyo Olympics saw the Boomers claim their first-ever bronze medal, a moment celebrated across the country.
Domestically, the NBL is thriving, with teams like the Sydney Kings and Melbourne United drawing packed arenas and growing TV audiences. International events such as the NBA Global Games, featuring preseason games in Australia, further ignite the local passion for basketball.
And this coverage means greater opportunities from Australian betting sites. Since we're talking about global sites like Unibet and bet365, many betting sites in Australasia offer as much basketball markets as if you were in the US.
Tennis Betting in Australia
January’s Australian Open is the heart of Australia’s tennis calendar, with over 1.1 million people flocking to Melbourne Park in 2024. Moments like Ash Barty’s 2022 win and Novak Djokovic’s record 10th Australian Open title in 2023 really highlight just how special this tournament is.
But it’s not just the Open that gets Aussie tennis fans buzzing. Events like the United Cup and the Davis Cup are still huge, and the country’s tennis legends, from Rod Laver to Margaret Court, continue to inspire the young generations of players.
In terms of its presence across Aussie betting sites, it’s not quite the heavyweight of footie or cricket, but you can still expect the major events to have a good spread of live and pre-game markets.
Horse Racing Betting in Australia
Horse racing remains a cornerstone of Australian sport, with the Melbourne Cup having millions of viewers nationwide. The Spring Racing Carnival, featuring races like the Caulfield Cup and Cox Plate, offers weeks of excitement for fans and a festive atmosphere that transcends the track.
Beyond Melbourne, The Everest in Sydney has redefined racing with its $20 million prize pool, making it the richest turf race in the world. Horses like Phar Lap, Makybe Diva and Winx are immortalised in Australian history, reflecting the nation’s enduring love for the sport.
Head over to any Aussie bookmaker, and you’ll find horse racing front and centre, with the most eye-catching promotions and wide range of odds. Plus, top Australian horse racing betting sites often throw in international events, particularly from the UK and Ireland, giving you more options to have a flutter on.
Is Online Betting Legal in Australia?
Yep, online sports betting is legal in Australia, as long as the operator has the right licence from an Aussie state or territory. But when it comes to live betting, it’s a different story. You can only place live bets over phone, not online. This comes from the Interactive Gambling Amendment Act 2017, which was designed to slow down impulsive betting by making punters call in their bets during live events, giving a bit of space for some thought before placing a wager.
As for online casino betting, that’s mostly a no-go in Australia. In some areas, you can legally play online poker, as well as certain bingo and lottery games, but it all depends on the state legislation. Other online casino games like slots, roulette and blackjack are still off-limits across all states and Australian betting sites.
Laws for Online Betting in Australia
Aussie bookmakers work under a tight set of rules to make sure sports betting stays safe, fair and well-regulated. The IGA is the main law in play here, keeping everything above board. Plus, the National Consumer Protection Framework for Online Gambling makes sure operators provide customers with plenty of responsible gambling tools to keep their betting in check, like self-exclusion options and deposit limits.
When it comes to money matters, Australian bookmakers need to follow state-based tax laws. Each state has its own rates, which are enforced through the Gambling Tax Act. Punters don’t need to worry about paying tax on their winnings.
Choosing a Good Australian Betting Site
Regulation & Licensing: Make sure the site’s licensed in Australia so you know it's playing by the rules and keeping your bets safe and secure.
Odds & Bonuses: Look for a site with good odds and solid promos – like sign-up bonuses or regular offers – to make your betting experience much sweeter.
Customer Support: You want a bookmaker with top-notch support, whether it’s over live chat, email or phone, and reachable anytime.
Payment Methods & Currency: Go for a site that supports AUD and offers easy payment options like PayPal, debit cards or bank transfers for hassle-free transactions.
Livestreaming & Market Variety: A good site should have livestreaming of events and a heap of in-play markets, from big games to lesser-known matches.
Popular Payment Methods for Australian Bookmakers
Any payment method that’s legally accepted and compatible with the Australian dollar can be used.
Debit cards like Visa and Mastercard are the most popular choices, offering fast and secure transactions. Most deposits are processed instantly, with minimums ranging from $5 to $20, and withdrawals typically take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days.
E-wallets like PayPal are also widely used for betting, offering extra security and faster processing times. Minimum deposits are usually between $5 and $20, with withdrawals taking around 24 to 48 hours on average. Other e-wallets like Skrill and Neteller are available, though they're less common on Australian betting sites.
Live Betting in Australia
All our top Australian bookmakers offer a solid range of live betting markets, with the only compromise being the need to call to place your bets. The experience remains comprehensive, offering a similar variety of markets compared to pre-match betting.
Ladbrokes sets the gold standard for live betting, featuring an impressive selection of markets across sports like horse racing, e-sports, Aussie rules and soccer. With several options available at any time, plus 24/7 phone support and real-time stats synced with the action, they’ve truly nailed it.
Is Livestreaming Available for Aussie Bettors?
Yes. If you opt for one of our recommended operators, you’ll be sorted for loads of livestreaming. There are no laws stopping it, though some sports might have a few licensing hoops to jump through.
For example, Australian horse racing betting sites? You’re set with stacks of livestreams. As for Australian Rules betting, you’ll need to catch it on Fox Sports or Seven Network.
Just remember, some sites like Ladbrokes might need you to have a bit of cash in your account or to place a bet on the game to watch it.
How to Bet Online in Australia
Even if you’re a complete rookie when it comes to Australian betting sites, you’ll be ready to play in no time. You could be placing your first bet within minutes, no dramas. Just follow these five simple steps and you’ll be good to go!
Pick a Bookie. Any of our top picks can deliver a bonza experience, but at the end of the day, it’s up to you to choose the one that suits you best.
Sign Up. Takes no time – just your email, password, and a few basic details. You could be ready to roll in under a minute!
Deposit Funds. Pick your payment method, add the details and amount, confirm, and the money should be in there straight away.
Pick a Market. Have a look at the odds and choose one that catches your eye and offers a decent chance of paying off.
Complete Your Bet. Have a squiz at your returns, and if you’re happy with what’s on offer, hit confirm. You’re good to go, mate!
You may need to show ID before you bet
Due to the 2017 update to the Interactive Gambling Act, Aussies now need to verify their identity before they can place any bets. Often, this is done automatically when you sign up. But if not, you might need to upload a photo ID, a recent utility bill or a bank statement. Don’t worry, it’s a quick process – usually taking about 10 minutes or so. It’s all about keeping things safe and making sure you're over 18 before jumping in.
Best Aussie Betting Promotions
There are few restrictions on what Australian bookmakers can offer in terms of promotions. You'll find all sorts of bonuses like free bets, acca boosts and bet boosts to enhance your betting experience. For example, bet365 offers early payouts if your soccer pick goes two goals ahead, along with a 100% boost on accas.
Keep in mind that many bookies won’t advertise their promotions until you're signed up. Once you're in, though, you’ll be able to take advantage of those bonus.
Other Country Betting Guides – Click Each Flag To Learn More
ThePuntersPage Final Say
Here’s the deal, mate. Australian betting sites are bloody brilliant, as long as you know where to look. You’ll find top-notch odds across heaps of sports and live betting will be on the cards. Sure, there might be a couple of extra hoops to jump through compared to other parts of the world but make no mistake – Australia’s best betting sites quality is undeniable.
Australia Betting Resources
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Interactive Gambling Act 2001: The Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (IGA) is the cornerstone of online gambling regulation in Australia. It prohibits certain forms of online gambling, such as online casinos, while setting out the legal framework for regulated activities like sports betting and poker.
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Interactive Gambling Amendment (Remote Gambling) Act 2017: Introduced to address changes in the online betting landscape, the Interactive Gambling Amendment (Remote Gambling) Act 2017 tightened regulations for live betting, making it clear that live betting must take place via phone rather than online.
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National Consumer Protection Framework for Online Gambling: The National Consumer Protection Framework was created to safeguard Australian gamblers by enforcing betting operators to provide tools for self-exclusion, impose deposit limits and take proactive steps to prevent gambling harm.
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Gambling Tax Act 2001: The Gambling Tax Act 2001 requires operators to comply with state-specific tax obligations, with rates and procedures varying between regions.
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Australian Communications and Media Authority: Responsible for overseeing the implementation of gambling laws in Australia, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) ensures that operators comply with the Interactive Gambling Act and other relevant legislation.
Best Australian Betting Sites FAQs
Thanks to their generous promotions, excellent market variety, superb live coverage, and more, our top picks for the best betting sites in Australia are bet365, Ladbrokes and Unibet.
Online sports gambling is legal in Australia, as long as operators are licensed and adhere to strict regulations. However, online casino gambling is not legal, with no framework allowing online casinos to operate.
Debit cards and PayPal are the most popular payment methods for betting in Australia, offering fast, secure transactions. While other options are available, these are the most widely accepted across Australian betting sites.
Aussies love their horse racing, Aussie Rules and cricket – they’re absolute staples at every bookmaker down under. Whether it’s the Melbourne Cup, the AFL Grand Final or The Ashes, that’s where the action is. You’ll also see plenty of options for rugby, soccer and tennis betting, with e-sports picking up steam as well.
The Aussie dollar, mate! That’s the only currency you'll need when betting with the best Australian betting sites. Keeps things nice and local.
Yep, if you're an Aussie and over 18, you're good to go for online betting in Australia. Just make sure you're using a legit site, and you're all set to have a crack at it.
You’ve got a solid selection of betting apps, including bet365, Ladbrokes and Unibet. They offer a great range of sports, live betting and plenty of markets – perfect for punting on the go. Just download, sign up and you’re all set!