UPDATE: The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has just reaffirmed its commitment to strict gambling regulation, rejecting claims of a softened enforcement approach in the controversial Sportsbet case. This comes as scrutiny intensifies following reports that Sportsbet attempted to influence the ACMA’s public statements about its enforcement actions.
In a bold response, the ACMA confirmed that it imposed a record AUD 2.5 million ($1.7 million) fine on Sportsbet for breaching spam communication laws. The regulator found that Sportsbet had sent unsolicited marketing texts and emails to tens of thousands of individuals who had opted out, violating Australian regulations.
The ACMA’s stance follows a wave of criticism over its handling of the case, particularly after documents revealed that Sportsbet had lobbied the authority to alter the wording of its public announcement regarding the 2022 decision. In a statement, the regulator emphasized, “The revisions to the media release in no way changed the outcome of the investigation and the enforcement action.”
This announcement comes amid rising concerns about the credibility of regulatory actions in Australia. Notably, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) also faced scrutiny after it was fined AUD 7.5 million ($5 million) for sending over 170 million non-compliant marketing emails. The CBA case added fuel to the fire, with former Supreme Court judge Anthony Whealy criticizing the ACMA for allegedly delaying the announcement to suit the bank’s interests ahead of its annual general meeting.
The ACMA has stated that its compliance and enforcement programs are designed not only to stop unlawful conduct but also to deter future violations and protect consumers. “In our spam prevention activities alone, in 2024-25 the ACMA issued infringement notices to companies totaling more than $13.5 million,” the agency affirmed.
The implications of these enforcement actions are significant for both consumers and companies operating in Australia. The ACMA’s efforts aim to ensure that businesses adhere to legal obligations and maintain ethical marketing practices.
As public pressure mounts, the ACMA insists it will not back down from its enforcement responsibilities. In light of recent events, stakeholders are urged to monitor further developments closely. The agency concluded, “The primary objectives behind the ACMA’s publication of its enforcement outcomes are to inform and educate members of the regulated community about the standards required by law and to serve as a general deterrence to the relevant regulated sector.”
With the regulatory landscape under intense scrutiny, the focus now shifts to how effectively the ACMA can maintain its authority amidst claims of regulatory leniency. Shareholders and analysts alike are watching closely as the fallout from these cases continues to unfold.
Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story progresses.
