Betting sites
    Bookmaker Reviews

    Bookmaker Reviews

    Bookmaker Reviews Australia 2025

    With the Gambling Act applying strict gambling regulations, Australian bookmakers had to step up with the product it offers betting enthusiasts and not rely solely on bonus offers. We have reviewed and ranked the newest online betting sites and offer a comprehensive guide to Australia’s best bookmakers. NewBettingSites have done the heavy lifting for you and confidently recommend these brands:

    Trusted Bookmaker Reviews

    Below you can find quick reviews for the best established and new betting sites in Australia. If you want to know more about each bookmaker, click the links to see our comphrensive reviews or sign up code info. 
    1
    Elitebet

    Elitebet

    9.9
    screenshotImg

    Elitebet is a 100% Australian-owned and operated bookmaker and was launched in 2012 by Daniel Paolini who operated as an oncourse bookmaker at Rosehill Gardens. Their main focus is horse racing, and their team boasts to offer some of the best customer service going around. Although racing has been and continues to be a strong focus, they are innovating in the sports betting vertical with AI powered form guides for AFL and NRL which provide instant stats to help find that winning edge.

    Pros
    • Exclusive Elitebet code is  BETSAU
    • Quick withdrawals with OSKO
    • AI form guides for AFL & NRL
    • Great Same Game Multi feature
    • Hot Bets function
    • 100% Australian-owned
    • Great variety of promotions

    Cons
    • No live streams
    • Niche sports markets are lacking
    2
    dabble

    Dabble

    9.8
    screenshotImg

    Dabble is one of the most exciting bookmakers in the Australian online betting space as their product is more unique than any other. There is no desktop site to bet from which some could see as a downside, but all of their technology and development has gone into their app, making it a standout among users. Banter and community is their focus, and that shows with features like ‘Copy Bet’ where you can follow successful punters and copy their bets in an instant. 

    Pros
    • Dabble Sign Up Code is BETSAU
    • NBA Same Game Multi Tracker
    • Super quick withdrawals with OSKO
    • Community-based app set up for banter
    • Australian-owned
    • Unique promotional offers & features
    • Copy bets from winning punters
    • Racing live streams
    Cons
    • No desktop site
    • Doesn't have BPAY or POLi
    3
    Marantellibet

    Marantellibet

    9.6
    screenshotImg

    Marantellibet is a well established bookmaker in Australia having been in operation for more than 50 years. This family run business was started by Gavin Marantelli who started operating as a track bookmaker in the early 70s before going online with Marantellibet in 2022. Racing is obviously a specialty for the brand, but in keeping with the times, they offer an extensive book of sports betting options.

    Pros
    • Exclusive Marantellibet Code is BETS
    • More than 50 years bookmaking experience
    • Racing specialists with great odds
    • Extensive racing & sports promos
    • Great customer service including live chat
    • TV Streaming 
    Cons
    • Could have more sports markets
    4
    PlayUP

    PlayUp

    9.6
    screenshotImg

    PlayUp was established in 2019 and has quickly become one of the powerhouse online bookmakers in Australia. They offer just about every market you could think of, and you can also link your account to their fantasy sports betting platform Draftstars which is the only fantasy betting app you’ll ever need.

    Pros
    • PlayUp promo code is WELCOME
    • 100% Aussie-owned & operated
    • Great fixed odds & line betting
    • Fantasy sports with their link to Draftstars
    • Daily racing & sports promotions
    • Best Tote + SP
    • Dedicated mobile app
    • Owner's Bonus
    • Protest Payout
    Cons
    • No live streaming
    • Basic form guides
    5
    Tradiebet

    TradieBet

    9.5
    screenshotImg

    Launching in late 2023, Tradiebet has been in the game long enough to hone their product to suit their target audience. A solid mix of racing and sports markets as you would expect, and they appear to have a wide range of promotional offers on both racing and sport.

    Pros
    • Exclusive Tradiebet code is  BETSAU
    • Australian-owned
    • Simplistic mobile app
    • Great customer service
    • Good range of promos for existing customers
    Cons
    • No live streaming
    • Could have more sport markets
    6
    Ladbrokes Australia

    Ladbrokes Australia

    9.3
    screenshotImg

    Ladbrokes is one of the oldest bookmakers in the world having started in the UK in 1886. They expanded their operation to Australia in 2013 with the launch of Ladbrokes Australia, and the powerhouse bookmaking operation has gone from strength to strength since. They have been a key innovator in the betting industry and continue to be first to the party having launched their AI powered Form Genius in 2024.

    Pros
    • Exclusive Ladbrokes Code  is  BLACKBOOK
    • Well-established brand
    • AI Form Genius
    • Strong site security
    • Expert tipsters & Ladbrokes Blog
    • Huge range of promotions
    • Top-rated mobile apps
    • 24/7 Customer support available
    Cons
    • Better odds to be found elsewhere
    • Less futures markets than competitors
    7
    Neds

    Neds

    9.3
    screenshotImg

    Interestingly, Neds was launched in 2017 by a group of former Ladbrokes employees that thought they could serve the Australian betting audience better. They met with instant success and the company was acquired by Ladbrokes but retained the employees that made the product great. Fast forward to now and Neds is one of the biggest online bookmakers in Australia with an innovative product that appeals to a wide variety of punters.

    Pros
    • Neds Sign Up Code  is  BLACKBOOK
    • Follow trending bets
    • Bet Social & Open Groups
    • Neds Card
    • Live Racing Streams
    • Neds Toolbox
    • Amazon Alexa enables voice prompts
    • Offers & promotions for existing members
    • Customer support 24/7
    Cons
    • Same odds as Ladbrokes
    • No live stream for sports
    8
    Palmerbet

    Palmerbet

    9.2
    screenshotImg

    Palmberbet has been in operation in Australia for more than 60 years as a family-run bookmaking operation. They entered the online space in 2013 with Andrew, Grant, Matthew and Adrian Palmer being at the forefront of the business. They offer a more personalised betting experience than most, and they pride themselves on offering good odds and actually taking the punter on instead of just copying market prices from rival bookmakers.

    Pros
    • Australian-owned and family run
    • Punters Club
    • My Stable
    • Bookie Bag Promotions
    • Comprehensive racing & sport blog
    • Special odds for racehorse owners
    • Great selection of promos- especially on Saturday
    Cons
    • Limited withdrawal methods
    • No live streaming
    9
    bet365 Australia

    bet365 Australia

    9.0
    screenshotImg

    Probably the biggest bookmaker in the world with operations in Europe, Africa, USA and Canada, Asia and Oceania. The Australian arm, bet365 Australia launched in 2012 and has been a front runner in the online bookmaking space since its inception. Their live streaming service is simply the best you will find anywhere, and the offer a wide range of promotions on sport and racing.

    Pros
    • Exclusive bet365 code Australia is BESTBETS
    • Unrivalled live stream action
    • Can edit live multi bets
    • bet365 Visa card
    • Widest range of markets & events
    • Watch & bet on every NBA game
    • Great promotions on sport & racing
  • Cons
    • Can restrict accounts
    10
    picklebet

    Picklebet

    9.0
    screenshotImg

    A relative newcomer to the Aussie online betting ranks having launched in 2017 as an esports betting platform. They extended their markets to sport in 2020 and also added racing markets in 2023. They have an unrivalled esports betting experience with live streams and more esports markets than any other bookie, but their sports and racing product has really taken off with some exciting features like First 4 Betting. These guys definitely didn’t take the traditional route to creating a leading betting site, but they have outdone themselves and the product continues to go from strength to strength.

    Pros

    • Exclusive Picklebet Affiliate Code is NEWBETS
    • More esports markets that any other bookmaker
    • Esports live streams
    • Top 4 betting on racing
    • 100% Aussie-owned & operated
    • Pick'em contests
    • Unique promotions for existing customers
    Cons
    • No phone betting or live betting
    • No traditional sport or racing live streams
    11
    Unibet Australia

    Unibet Australia Review

    8.9
    screenshotImg

    Unibet Australia is one of the best all-round betting sites for Aussie punters to get their hands on. With heaps of sports live streams, a diverse range of markets and a strong focus on racing and promotions, you certainly get bang for buck. They don't shy away from big punters and are one of the most reputable bookies in the land.

    Pros
    • Live streams for 8 different sports
    • Unibet Vault for promos
    • Sports Rewards
    • World-class app
    • Racing form guides
    • Sports stats
    • Great range of sports markets
    • Jockey Challenges
    • Bundle Bet on racing
    • Protest Payouts
    Cons
    • Doesn't have 24/7 support

    12
    Puntnow

    PuntNow

    8.7
    screenshotImg

    PuntNow is a member of the Victorian Bookmakers Association and was launched in 2023. This is the youngest of our top 10 bookmakers but they have hit the ground running with a neat, user friendly mobile app and desktop site. The platform lacks some of the bells and whistles other sites have, and instead, PuntNow has remained focussed on offering great odds and customer service.

    Pros
    • Puntnow referral code is BESTBETS
    • 100% Australian-owned
    • Rewards points
    • Daily promotions
    • Dedicated mobile app
    • 24/7 live chat
    Cons
    • No live streaming for sport or racing
    13
    Betfocus

    Betfocus

    8.7
    screenshotImg

    betfocus entered the Australian market in early 2024 and has provided an app and desktop site that have a unique feel to them. One thing in particular that makes them standout in a sea of bookmaking options is their betfocus rewards. Register for an account and see what the hype is about.

    Pros
    • Exclusive Betfocus code is BETS
    • Great customer service
    • Variety of sport and racing promotions
    • PayID
    Cons
    • No live streaming
    14
    Boombet

    Boombet Review

    8.6
    screenshotImg

    Boombet was formerly known as sportsbetting.com.au who were one of the original online bookmakers in Australia, dating back to 1998. They rebranded in 2021 due to the similarity with Sportsbet who has continued to expand it's product offerings but reduce their odds heavily over the years. Boombet pride themselves on offering fair odds, and they regularly feature among the best odds in Australia on odds comparison websites. If you are looking for a bookmaker that focusses on offering great odds and customer service instead of the bells and whistles, Boombet may be the right fit for you.

    Pros
    • Boombet promo code  is  NEWBONUS
    • Market leader in value odds
    • Great customer service
    • Expert tips for racing & sport
    • Form guides & speed maps
    • Protest Payouts
    • 100% Australian-owned & operated
    • Follow Hot Bets
    • Share bets with friends
    • Boombox for daily promotions
    • Esports coverage
    Cons
    • No in-play betting
    • No live streams
    15
    Topsport

    TopSport

    8.4
    screenshotImg

    Another online betting site that hails from oncourse bookmakers. TopSport was launched in 1998, which doesn’t make them new, but with so much attention around the goliath bookmaking operations, this boutique bookie deserves a mention. They offer really fair prices on racing and sport, and they offer one of the best In Play betting services by calling 1800 TOPSPORT.

    Pros
    • Exclusive TopSport code  is  BETSAU
    • No history of banning winning punters
    • Loyalty Rewards
    • Personalised customer service
    • Australian-owned & operated
    • Will take large bets
    Cons
    • Not as many promos as some rivals
    • No live streaming
    16
    Winnersbet

    Winnersbet

    8.4
    screenshotImg

    Launched in June 2020, Winnersbet also had to deal with a pandemic that saw major impacts on sport and racing around the world. The site is owned by bookmaker Da He, and punters can rest assured that bets will be paid out as Winnersbet is a member of the Victorian Bookmakers Association. The site and app have a clean feel to them and are easy to navigate, meaning it takes no time at all to get bets on.

    Pros
    • Exclusive Winnersbet referral code is BETS
    • Quick sign up process
    • 100% Aussie-owned
    • Multiple Tote options
    • Great horse racing promotions
    Cons
    • No live betting or live streams
    • Lacking in some sports markets
    17
    Vicbet

    Vicbet Review

    8.3
    screenshotImg

    Vicbet boast a great looking and unique betting site in amongst a host of replica platforms in Australia. The long-established, family-run bookie offers users big bet limits and has great promos on racing - however, they don't have sports betting options. Big racing bets from other punters are highlighted making it easier for users to follow the money trail. One of the better racing sites out there and definitely worth your time.

    Pros
    • Australian-owned & family-run
    • Protest Payouts
    • Willing to take big bets from punters
    • Big Bets highlighted on the app and site
    • Variety of payment options
    • Great customer service
    • Clean unique site & app
    Cons
    • No promo code for sign up
    • No sports markets
    18
    Realbookie

    Realbookie

    8.1
    screenshotImg

    The timing wasn’t great for Realbookie to launch as they did so in 2020 during the coronavirus pandemic, which makes them still relatively new. Although the online betting platform is new, the site and app are run by real bookies (as the name suggests). Realbookie is owned by Mark Sampieri whose late father, Graeme, had been a long standing and respected bookmaker oncourse in Victoria. He was renowned for taking on punters and never shying away from a big bet, and that seems the philosophy behind Realbookie.

    Pros
    • Exclusive Realbookie code  is BESTBETS
    • More than 50 years experience as oncourse bookie
    • Realbookie TV (Racing live stream)
    • Expert tips and form guides
    • Realbookie card for instant withdrawals
    • Personalised customer service
    • Bet on tournaments
    • Huge range of promotions
    Cons
    • Lack of sport live streams
    • No live betting option
    19
    RobWaterhouse

    Rob Waterhouse Review

    8.1
    screenshotImg

    The Waterhouse name is synonymous with racing in Australia - Rob is one of the county's most astute bookmakers, and his wife Gai is a prominent racehorse trainer. at robwaterhouse.com.au, you will find some of the best odds on racing, and you get access to Rob's best bets and Lay of the Day. The site is built on the BetMakers software, as many online betting sites are, but that's where the similarity stops. As well as racing, you will find a good selection of sports markets, but these aren't as well-priced as the racing offering.

    Pros
    • Rob Waterhouse code  is BLACKBOOK
    • Daily Tips & Lay of the Day
    • Promos for existing customers
    • Racing Live Streams
    • Experience bookmaker
    • Great odds on racing
    • Australian-owned
    Cons
    • Could have better sports odds
    • No sports live streams
    20
    PremiumBet

    Premiumbet Review

    8.0
    screenshotImg

    With more than 15 years of experience operating as a rails bookie around Australia, Premiumbet has a strong focus on customer service and offering great odds. Their betting site and app are well rounded, but they could offer a broader range of sports. However, their soccer and basketball markets are extensive, and that follows through to the AFL and NRL seasons with plenty of markets on offer.

    Pros
    • Premiumbet promo code  is BETS
    • NBA & Soccer specialists
    • Aussie-owned betting site
    • Expert tips for sport & racing
    • Premiumbet TV for racing coverage
    • Live Chat
    • Great customer service
    • SGM & SRM
    • Protest Payout
    Cons
    • Could have more sports markets
    • No sport live streams
    21
    Punt123

    Punt123 Review

    7.8
    screenshotImg

    Punt123 is a new entrant into the Australian bookmaker scene, and there isn't a lot that sets them apart from others. The platform features competitive odds and a variety of betting markets, but they could add more individual sports and esports to their book. However, they have daily promotions available and are worth checking out to see if you like the feel of the site and app.

    Pros
    • Punt123 promo code  is  BETS
    • Punt123 TV for racing streams
    • Protest Payout
    • Expert tips & insights
    • International racing coverage
    • SRM & SGM
    • Daily promotions
    Cons
    • Could cover more sports
    • No sports live streams
    22
    Terrybet

    Terrybet Review

    7.8
    screenshotImg

    Terrybet is the online wagering platform for NSW bookmaker Terry Coelli who has more than 30 years experience as an on-course bookie. Users can log in via the desktop site or download the Terrybet app on Android and iOS devices. With a strong focus on promos and customer service, the 100% Aussie-owned betting site is worth checking out. 

    Pros
    • Exclusive Terrybet promo code  is BETS
    • More than 30 years experience as on-course bookie
    • Australian-owned & operated
    • Daily promotions
    • Live streams for international racing
    • Expert tips & insights
    • Protest Payout on horse racing
    • Live chat function
    Cons
    • Lack of sports live streams
    • No quick link to promos
    23
    PuntZone

    PuntZone

    7.7
    screenshotImg

    One of the newest bookies to hit Australian shores, PuntZone was launched in late 2024 and is Australian-owned and operated. They are regulated by Liquor & Gaming New South Wales, so you can rest assured that they comply with Australian gambling standards. While their racing coverage is extensive, there is a heavy sports focus meaning you can find just about any sport market you are looking for.

    Pros
    • Exclusive Puntzone code is BET
    • New bookie launched in 2024
    • 100% Aussie-owned & operated
    • Wide variety of payment methods
    • Good racing & sport promotions
    Cons
    • No dedicated app as yet
    24
    Midasbet

    Midasbet

    7.5
    screenshotImg

    Midasbet features among our top 10 new bookmakers but has actually been around since July 2022. They have a dedicated app, and users can log in to see the vast range of promotions they offer. There is nothing particularly innovative about the betting platform, but they do have highly competitive odds which make them a must in your bookie bag.

    Pros
    • Exclusive Midasbet code is BETSAU
    • Aussie-owned and operated
    • Log in to view range of promotions
    • Loyalty program
    • Great odds on sport and racing markets

    Cons
    • No live streams
    • No esports betting
    25
    Justbet

    Justbet

    7.5
    screenshotImg

    Launching just in time for the 2023 spring carnival, Justbet offered a strong racing focussed product with every bet earning rewards. Their sports markets are continually growing, and the clean user interface makes the app simple to use. Login to see daily promotions and try Justbet for yourself.

    Pros
    • Exclusive Justbet code  is BETSAU
    • Australian-owned and operated
    • Good range of promos for existing customers
    • Every bet earns rewards
    Cons
    • No live streaming on sport or racing
    26
    Colossalbet

    Colossalbet Review

    7.4
    screenshotImg

    Colossalbet have been around since 2021, and they have a strong focus on providing a personalised experience for the punter. Based on your punting history, you will be met with tips and promos that suit you. The Colossalbet cash card is a nice feature that gives you instant access to your money, and they have a good range of payment methods.

    Pros
    • Colossalbet promo code  is BETSAU
    • Consistently better odds than most
    • Colossalbet IQ
    • Personalised experience
    • Expert tips
    • Colossalbet cash card
    • Chat function
    • Strong customer support
    • Racing form guides
    • SGM & SRM
    • Great range of sports markets
    Cons
    • No live streams
    27
    Chasebet

    Chasebet Review

    7.2
    screenshotImg

    Chasebet is an Australian-based betting platform that offers a wide range of betting options tailored specifically for Aussie punters. While the site does specialise in greyhound racing, they offer much more in the way of gallops and harness racing markets, as well as a comprehensive sports book. At Chasebet, you'll find industry-leading promotions, competitive fixed-price markets, and multiple odds options for racing.

    Pros
    • Chasebet promo code  is  BETS
    • Featured Same Game Multi copy function
    • Copy Popular Same Race Multis
    • Strong banking options
    • Dedicated mobile betting app
    • Extensive horse and greyhound betting options
    • Excellent fixed-odds markets
    • Top Tote + SP betting available
    • Innovative greyhound betting features
    • Knowledgeable customer service
    • Live streaming for racing events
    Cons
    • Limited sports betting options
    • No esports betting markets
    • No live betting markets
    28
    betfair

    Betfair Australia Review

    7.2
    screenshotImg

    Betfair Australia is the premier betting exchange in Australia - meaning punters can trade bets and set their own odds. Betfair has consistently come out on top for offering the best racing odds on average, so if you're a punter looking for the best odds available, Betfair is a must. As well as racing, Betfair cover a wide variety of sports markets where you can back a team or player to win or lay them to lose.

    Pros
    • Betfair promo code Australia is BETSAU
    • Best odds on average for racing and sport
    • Leading insights with 'The Hub'
    • Set your own odds
    • Back & Lay
    • In-Play betting
    • Trading available to hedge your bets
    Cons
    • Takes time to understand the platform
    • Complicated for new punters
    29
    Bet66

    Bet66 Review

    7.1
    screenshotImg

    bet66 entered the Australian market in mid 2023 and have gone from a barebones online bookmaker to quite a comprehensive betting site. They have continued to add features and more market selections to the platform, and that's a good sign for any new betting site in Australia. When comparing racing odds to a few well know bookies, Bet66 actually came out on top.

    Pros
    • Bet66 sign up code  is BETS
    • Comprehensive sports coverage for a new bookie
    • Bet66 TV for racing live streams
    • Live Chat available
    • Unique Same Game Multi format
    • Quick to go up with sports markets
    • Protest payout on racing
    • Top Tote+ & SP
    • Log in to see member promos
    Cons
    • No esports markets
    • No sport live streams
    30
    BaggyBet

    Baggybet Review

    6.9
    screenshotImg

    The Baggybet site and app appears very clean with an intuitive layout for both racing and sports fans. Racing fans are greeted with 'Next to Go' markets and Racelab Tips for each race, while sports punters can view upcoming markets as well as Popular Same Game Multis and Featured Same Game Multis. The site boasts 'More Markets and Bigger Odds' on Same Game Multis, and they are certainly worth a look in.

    Pros
    • Baggybet promo code is BETS
    • Live racing on Baggybet TV
    • Quick and easy app to use
    • Personalised promos for existing users
    • 5000+ markets per week
    • Racelab tips on racing
    • SRM & SGM
    • Protest Payout
    Cons
    • Lack of esports markets
    • No live betting

    About Our Bookmaker Reviews

    The bookmaker you choose directly affects the outcome of your bottom line and therefore, we only include the information that really matters to you as a punter in our betting site reviews. We focus on betting products, value-added service and overall betting experience a sports enthusiast will have with each bookmaker. 

    We look at everything from registering an account to withdrawing winnings and help you make an informed decision. NewBettingSites believes that choosing a bookmaker shouldn’t be a split-second decision - that’s why our betting sites reviews are honest, transparent and a reflection of what you can expect when registering as a member with them. 

    How to Choose the Right Bookmaker in Australia

    When we recommend a bookmaker, you can be sure that NewBettingSites considered an extensive list of factors. Every betting site has something that makes it stands out from the rest, but a well-rounded bookmaker has a betting site and app that punters can trust, enjoy, and get more value than their money’s worth. 

    NewBettingSites qualifies each bookmaker by these key points when assessing and rating online bookmakers in Australia: 

    Factors to Consider

    Licensing and Regulation

    Ensure the bookmaker is licensed in Australia and is regulated by a government authority. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) provides an updated list of all licensed bookmakers in Australia.

    Reputation and User Feedback

    Do some research about the bookmaker's reputation by checking user reviews and ratings. Here, it’s important to look for consistently positive feedback regarding reliability, customer service, and payout disputes.

    Range of Sports and Betting Markets

    Depending on what betting markets are likely to use, choose a bookmaker that offers the widest range of markets for your favourite sport or racing type.

    Live Streaming

    If you are inclined to watch the sport you are placing a bet on, try and find a bookmaker that offers live streams for that sport. For example, you can watch and bet on all NBA games with bet365, Dabble offer one of the most comprehensive racing live streams, and Picklebet has an unrivalled live stream function for esports.

    Competitive Odds

    Again, look at the sport you are more likely to want to bet on and compare odds across different bookmakers to make sure you're getting good value for your bets. Obtaining better odds is a crucial part of punting that is often overlooked, and it can significantly impact your potential winnings in the long run.

    User-Friendly Interface

    If placing a bet in a hurry is high on your priority list, opt for a bookmaker with an intuitive and easy-to-navigate website and mobile app. Some bookmakers have an inbuilt ‘Quick Bet’ function which can save time and make the difference between getting your bet on in time or not. 

    Mobile Compatibility

    In today's world where 85% of all bets are placed on a mobile device, choose a bookmaker that offers a well-designed mobile app or mobile-responsive website for betting on the go.

    Payment Options

    Most if not all bookmakers offer bank transfers as a deposit option, but if you would rather use Apple Pay, PayPal, POLi or some other deposit method, make sure the bookmaker you are considering has that payment option. Also consider a bookmaker that has quick withdrawal methods. While some offer instant withdrawals, others may take hours or even days to transfer your winnings back to you. 

    Promotions

    Unfortunately, this one is tricky, because bookmakers in Australia aren’t allowed to advertise their promotions to customers without an account. In order to see all promotions a bookmaker has to offer, you will need to create an account and be logged in on that account to view them. 

    Customer Support

    Choose a bookmaker that has gone the extra mile to ensure great customer support. Some bookmakers offer a personal account manager that you can speak with regarding any concerns you may have, while account managers can also be good for offering tailored promos to users.

    Security Measures

    Ensure the bookmaker uses strong security protocols, such as SSL encryption, to protect your personal and financial information.

    Red Flags to Watch For

    Unlicensed Operations

    Simply steer clear of these. If a bookmaker isn’t licensed in Australia, you are gambling on them paying out any winnings, and if a dispute does arise, you won’t have the relevant government body to go into bat for you.

    Poor User Reviews

    These can be taken with a grain of salt because a punter that has just lost can be scathing enough to make the bookmaker seem poor when they have done nothing but accept a bet. However, be cautious of bookmakers with a consistent history of negative reviews.

    Lack of Transparency

    Steer clear of bookmakers that are not transparent about their terms and conditions, especially regarding bonuses and withdrawals.

    Lack of Responsible Gambling Features

    Responsible gambling features were introduced in Australia for punters to be proactive in setting deposit limits and self exclusions. If a bookmaker doesn’t offer these basic features, they have no interest in the customer protecting themselves from financial harm. 

    State-Specific Regulations

    While federal law provides an overarching framework, each state and territory in Australia has its own gambling regulator and specific regulations. 

    This means that licensing and operational requirements can vary depending on the jurisdiction. Some key state regulators include:
    State
    Responsible Gambling Rules
    Regulatory Body
    Australian Capital Territory ACT Gambling and Racing Control Code of Practice Government of the Australian Capital Territory/ACT
    TasmaniaResponsible Gambling Mandatory Code of Practice for TasmaniaTasmanian Government
    South AustraliaSA Responsible Gambling Code of PracticeGovernment of South Australia
    Northern TerritoryNT Responsible Gambling Codes of PracticeNorthern Territory Government
    New South WalesNSW Responsible Online Gambling CodesNSW Government
    VictoriaVictorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor RegulationVictoria State Government
    Western AustraliaWA Responsible Wagering Code of PracticeThe Gaming & Wagering Commission of WA
    QueenslandQueensland Responsible Gambling Code of PracticeQueensland Government

    Australia requires bookmakers to provide their customers with adequate resources to deal with problem gambling and should promote responsible gambling and offer on-site tools, like pre-commitment limits and self-exclusion. Transparency creates trust and this will always influence our review when NewBettingSites make a recommendation. 

    Compare Bookmaker Odds and Markets

    A bookmaker should have a good balance between markets and competitive odds. Finding a bookie with favourable odds that also offer a decent range of horse racing- and sports markets is key to ensuring a positive outcome for your wagers.

    A good betting site will cater for a wide spectrum of customers and have a variety of racing, sports and novelties betting products. High odds and low prices should apply to most of its markets, and punters should have a range of betting options to choose from. 

    Your hard-earned money should reward you with a bookmaker that offers more for your buck than any of its competitors. Be sure to choose one that NewBettingSites recommends. 

    Bookmaker Betting Codes

    Most Australian bookmakers will have sign up codes available for new users. And while Australian legislation ruled out offering bonuses when using a bookmaker sign up code, these codes streamline the sign up process and give you instant access to all the features associated with each betting site.

    Top Horse Racing Betting Tips

    The racing action is non-stop and punters need to get reliable and regular updates on events like horse-, greyhound- and harness racing. Horse racing betting enthusiasts need reliable and updated tips on upcoming events and also rely on having a live stream to watch the action - as it happens.

    Some specialist horse racing betting sites have daily offers and promotions in racing events. Markets should include all Australian races and also offer markets for international racing events. Do your homework and choose a bookmaker that is specifically tailored for your betting needs. 

    NewBettingSites promotes bookmakers that offer Bet of the Day, Best Tote, daily selections for the key meetings, tips on horses to follow and previews and analysis for all races and events throughout the year. Our reviews on horse racing bookmakers will help you choose a brand that offers a comprehensive horse racing betting experience.

    Top Sports Betting Tips

    Sports betting enthusiasts want a variety of markets across all sports types and sports betting sites are growing their library of markets to satisfy the needs of punters in Australia. Bookmakers should offer value sports betting tips across all the key events for Soccer, Rugby, AFL, NRL, Cricket, Union, Basketball and many more.  

    Our site not only contains unbiased reviews of leading bookmakers and guides on how to deposit and withdraw your winnings but we also offer tips on making smart bets and becoming a more skilled sports bettor. For now, we recommend you begin with the basics; learn the betting lingo, read the terms and conditions, never chase your losses and check back regularly for our latest reviews and betting guides.

    Reviews of Live Streaming Bookmakers

    Bookmakers should have live betting or live streaming available to their betting enthusiasts and more and more Australian bookies now offer this feature to their customers. Bettors should be able to place multiple bets with ease, so we favour bookmakers with a great multi-betting interface. 

    NewBettingSites guide you through your options with our reliable reviews of live streaming bookmakers. Live streaming betting sites with elite features have become increasingly popular at AU betting sites and our reviews help separate the excellent bookies from those that are just “good”.

    We recommend bookies that offer a well-rounded experience for horse racing betting fans and single out the best Australian bookies that offer live streaming.

    Benefits of Mobile Betting Sites

    Along with the growth in online gambling in Australia, is the need for punters to be able to bet anywhere and anytime on the go. Online gambling is moving to portable devices, therefore most reputable brands have their own dedicated betting app. 

    NewBettingSites always include mobile availability when doing their separate brand reviews and it counts towards our decision to recommend them as a well-versed and reputable betting operator. The app design should be simple and the navigation intuitive. The overall usability should be straightforward and user friendly. 

    The best Australian betting apps will cater for both Android and iOS mobile platforms and should mirror the layout of the corresponding website. Online bookmakers have to be well prepared when it comes to mobile betting as a huge percentage of online gambling in Australia is conducted with sports betting apps or mobile websites.

    How to Choose a Reliable Bookmaker

    Choosing a reliable bookie might be the single most important thing you can do before you consider wagering your first bet. 

    At NewBettingSites we consider the reliability of a bookmaker on several important factors - online safety, dependability of website and app, public reputation, and (most importantly), licencing and legalities. 

    Punters need to know that their winnings are safe and that their bookmaker is fully licenced, following the Code of Practise and regulated by a local governing body.

    NewBettingSites will only recommend bookmakers you can fully rely on have ticked all the boxes in terms of reliability. Being regulated by the ACMA, the Australian Government is very strict with online betting, and all bookmakers and local betting sites in your state have to have permission from one of these authorities: 

    The Importance of Customer Service

    Having a bookmaker that is available for when you need help is part of what makes an online bookmaker reliable and trustworthy. Punters need to have access to 24/7 support, and a customer care team fully equipped to handle any problem that may arise with care and efficiency. 

    Most Australian bookmakers offer live chat and an online email communications line, but not all bookies have 24/7 support. NewBettingSites provide detailed reviews on the top Australian brands, so you can always feel well taken care of while betting at a bookmaker we recommend. 

    Australian Online Bookmaker Reviews FAQs

    Why Should I trust your Bookmaker Reviews?

    Our online bookmaker reviews are completed by experienced industry experts who know exactly what to look for in a quality bookmaker. We follow a strict methodology, including:

    • Thorough research on the bookmaker's background and reputation
    • Hands-on testing of the website and mobile apps
    • Contacting customer support to assess responsiveness
    • Making real-money deposits and placing bets to evaluate the overall experience
    • Comparing odds and promotions against competitors

    How do I join a bookmaker in Australia?

    Every bookmaker has its own way of registration, but most follow a simple step-by-step process when registering your account. They would require you to provide certain personal details and verify both ID and residential address (within a limited time period) to be approved as a member.

    How many bookmakers are live in Australia?

    There are well over 400 bookmakers recorded in Australia, and this number is rapidly growing both on course and online. Australia's average annual gambling income is around $5 billion and this country’s gambling industry is one of the most profitable industries in the world.

    When did online wagering first begin in Australia?

    Wagering online is relatively new in Australia, compared to some other countries, but it is quickly catching up with the rest of the world. To control online gambling, Australia’s government passed the Interactive Gambling Act in 2001 in response to this rapid growth.

    Is in-play betting available online?

    No, Australians may not place in-play bets online. Australian betting fans can watch live sports and can only place bets via telephone.

    What are the best AU bookmakers online?

    NewBettingSites recommend you try Ladbrokes, Neds, dabble, JustBet, TradieBet, RobWaterhouse, TopSport and Betr among others.

    How often are your bookmaker reviews updated?

    We strive to keep our reviews as up to date as possible. The online betting industry is dynamic, with bookmakers frequently updating their offerings.

    How do I know if an online bookmaker is legitimate?

    Look for the following signs of a legitimate Australian bookmaker:

    • Proper licensing and regulation by an Australian authority
    • Secure website with SSL encryption
    • Responsible gambling tools and policies
    • Transparent terms and conditions
    • Positive user reviews and reputation

    What should I do if I have a dispute with a bookmaker?

    First, try to resolve the issue directly with the bookmaker's customer service. If unsuccessful, you can escalate your complaint to the relevant regulatory body that issued the bookmaker's licence.