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Punters Toolbox | Great App | Huge Odds | Rating | Referral Code JOIN NOW | Neds is 18+ only. T&C's apply. You can find out more information by visiting the Neds website. Please gamble responsibly. |
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Daily Markets | Live Betting | Trusted Bookie | Rating | Referral Code JOIN NOW | Ladbrokes is 18+ only. T&C's apply. You can find out more information by visiting the Ladbrokes website. Please gamble responsibly. |
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Top 4 Betting | Good App | Multis Available | Rating | Referral Code JOIN NOW | Picklebet is 18+ only. T&C's apply. Find out more information by visiting the Picklebet website. Please gamble responsibly. |
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Lay Betting | Best Odds | Prediction Models | Rating | Referral Code JOIN NOW | Betfair is 18+ only. T&C's apply. You can find out more information by visiting the Betfair website. Please gamble responsibly. |
Free Bets in Australia – What You Need to Know
Are you looking for free bets in Australia? Here’s the reality: free bets and bonus bets are now banned under Australian law. What used to be a common way for bookmakers to attract new punters is no longer permitted.
At KRUZEY, our job is to explain how things have changed, what’s legal today, and where you can still find safe, licensed betting sites in Australia.
The History of Free Bets
Before 2019, bookmakers often offered free bets or bonus bets to new customers. A typical example was: deposit $50 and receive a $50 bonus bet. These offers were designed to attract sign-ups and encourage betting activity.
However, as of 27 May 2019, changes under the National Consumer Protection Framework (NCPF) made it illegal for Australian bookmakers to provide sign-up inducements such as free bets, bonus bets, or special odds promotions.
What’s Actually Banned
The ban applies to ALL forms of inducements including:
- Sign-up bonuses and free bets
- Deposit matches and bonus credits
- Refunds and cashback offers (including multi-leg refunds)
- Enhanced or boosted odds for limited periods
- Refer-a-friend bonuses
- ANY inducement to gamble, even with disclaimers stating “not available in NSW”
How Free Bets Used to Work
For context, here’s how bonus bets once operated:
- You registered with a bookmaker and placed a “qualifying bet” with your own funds.
- The bookmaker then issued a bonus bet credit, which could be used on another market.
- Only the winnings (not the bonus stake) were returned if the bonus bet was successful.
These offers were popular with punters but were ultimately banned due to concerns about responsible gambling and the risk of encouraging harmful play.
The Current Reality – Betting Without Free Bets
Today, bookmakers can’t offer inducements. What they can offer are:
- Competitive odds across racing and sports
- Betting tools such as same-game multis, live streaming, and cash-out options
- Mobile apps and user-friendly platforms
- Fast payouts and multiple payment options
- Customer service and platform reliability
That means choosing a betting site is now more about features, reliability, and user experience—not about free bet promotions.
Trusted Betting Sites in Australia
We’ve reviewed Australia’s most reputable bookmakers. Here are some of the platforms punters use today:
Neds
Innovative punter tools and easy-to-use app. Competitive fixed odds across racing and sports markets with one of Australia’s best mobile betting apps.
Ladbrokes
Strong coverage across racing and sports with live streaming. Decades of UK experience brought to Australia with reliable support and secure payments.
PlayUp
Australian-owned bookmaker with competitive fixed odds. Straightforward platform focusing on simple betting without unnecessary complexity.
Betfair
Unique exchange betting model with competitive peer-to-peer odds. Extensive markets and sophisticated tools for serious punters.
Free Bets FAQs
Are there Free Bets on Sign-Up in Australia?
No. Australian bookmakers are prohibited from offering sign-up inducements such as free bets or bonus bets. This ban applies across all states and territories.
Can You Bet for Free?
No. Since May 2019, free bets have been completely banned. You cannot bet for free with any licensed Australian bookmaker.
Do Any Promotions Exist for Australian Punters?
Australian bookmakers can only advertise:
- Standard odds and betting markets
- General features like live streaming
- Brand awareness campaigns
- Information about races and sports
They CANNOT offer any financial incentives, refunds, cashbacks, or benefits tied to gambling activity.
What About Existing Customer Offers?
The ban applies to everyone – new and existing customers alike. Australian bookmakers cannot legally offer inducements of any kind, including loyalty rewards that encourage gambling, refunds on losing bets, or enhanced odds.
Is Using Offshore Sites for Bonuses Legal?
No. Using unlicensed offshore gambling operators is illegal in Australia. These sites:
- Offer no consumer protection
- May refuse to pay winnings
- Have no dispute resolution processes
- May compromise your financial and personal data
Always stick with licensed Australian operators for your safety and legal protection.
How Do I Choose a Bookmaker Without Bonuses?
Focus on legitimate factors:
- Compare odds across different bookmakers
- Check available markets for your preferred sports
- Test the mobile app or website functionality
- Read reviews about payout speeds and customer service
- Ensure they’re licensed by Australian state/territory regulators
Responsible Gambling Resources
Without inducements encouraging increased betting, focus on gambling as entertainment:
- Only gamble what you can afford to lose
- Set deposit and time limits
- Never chase losses
- Take regular breaks
- Seek help if gambling becomes problematic
Support Services:
- Gambling Help Online: 1800 858 858
- National Gambling Helpline: 1800 858 858
- Lifeline: 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
- Responsible Wagering Australia
- BetStop – The National Self-Exclusion Register
- Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation
- Gambling Help Online (National)
The Bottom Line
Free bets are gone for good in Australia. What matters now is choosing a trusted bookmaker with great features, sharp odds, and a responsible approach to gambling.
Visit our comprehensive Australia’s Best Betting Sites guide for detailed comparisons based on odds, markets, and service quality. Our reviews help you evaluate bookmakers on merit-based criteria that actually matter.
At KRUZEY, we’ll keep you updated on the best betting sites and provide tips to help you punt smarter, not riskier.
This content is for informational and educational purposes only. All gambling inducements are prohibited throughout Australia. Always gamble responsibly.
18+ Only | Gamble Responsibly | For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au
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