The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has issued a formal warning to Harris Bookmaking, trading as Chasebet, over failures related to gambling self-exclusion requirements.
The regulator found that Chasebet did not “adequately promote” BetStop, Australia’s National Self-Exclusion Register, across its communications. An investigation revealed the operator failed to include proper references to BetStop in three marketing emails and did not sufficiently highlight the tool on its website. Under Australian rules, licensed operators must promote BetStop and include links in all promotional messaging and digital platforms.
As a result, ACMA determined that Chasebet breached its licence conditions. However, the regulator noted the operator acted “promptly” to fix the issue after being notified, attributing the lapse to a software consolidation error. ACMA warned that further violations could lead to stronger enforcement action.
In a separate move, ACMA also ordered internet service providers to block 19 illegal gambling and affiliate websites found to be operating in breach of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. The list includes platforms such as Bass Bet, BetWhale, CasinOK, Cleobetra, Diva Spin, FatPirate, Free Spinz, Gransino and JackBit, among others.
Since launching its site-blocking program in 2019, ACMA has blocked around 1,640 illegal gambling and affiliate websites. More than 230 operators have also exited the Australian market since stricter enforcement began in 2017.
The regulator said:
ACMA is reminding consumers that even if a service looks legitimate, it’s unlikely to have important customer protections. This means Australians who use illegal gambling services risk losing their money.
