ACCC says OK to Sportingbet, Racing WA deal

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has given the preliminary go-ahead for online betting agency Sportingbet Australia to provide fixed odds betting services for Racing and Wagering Western Australia.

Sportingbet will provide RWWA with risk management information and manage its fixed odds books following completion of the acquisition.

ACCC deputy chair Michael Schaper said the transactions would allow RWWA to provide a greater range of betting services.

“Numerous betting exchanges and corporate bookmakers in Australia and overseas, competing with RWWA and Sportingbet for wagering customers, are likely to continue to drive pricing in the industry,” Dr Schaper said.

“RWWA and Sportingbet will also remain free to set their prices independently.”

The ACCC has issued a draft determination proposing to authorise the agreement for five years and is currently seeking submissions from interested parties.