The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has concluded its investigation into Tabcorp’s Tap in-play service, determining that the company has not violated any gambling laws. This service allows customers at Tabcorp venues to utilize their own smartphones to create in-play bets through the TAB app. They then tap their devices against a Tap in-play station to finalize their bets.
The ACMA highlighted that the service qualifies under the “place-based betting service” exception detailed in section 8BA of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (IGA). This exception was added in 2017, which clarified that in-venue in-play betting via electronic betting terminals (EBTs) is permissible.
Recognizing the potential risks associated with in-play betting for vulnerable individuals, the ACMA emphasized that the IGA restricts such betting to services available within venues, which allows for better observation of gambling behavior. The authority also noted that the safeguards for users of the Tap in-play service, such as a Real Time Intervention (RTI) strategy, provide stronger protections than those in place for conventional EBT users.
The ACMA’s ruling pertains specifically to the Tap in-play service’s operations at Tabcorp venues. However, the implementation of this service still requires approvals from individual state and territory regulators. If approved, the ACMA plans to closely monitor the service’s rollout and operation. Additionally, Tabcorp will be required to keep the ACMA updated on the implementation of RTI, including system updates and any incidents involving customers using the Tap in-play service.
This development signifies a positive step in the evolving landscape of regulated gambling in Australia, as authorities continue to balance innovation in betting services with the imperative of responsible gambling practices.