Northern Territory Racing Commission clarifies its expectations regarding gambling affiliate arrangements and agreements

On 9 October 2023, the Northern Territory Racing Commission (NTRC) circulated a notice to all Northern Territory licensed bookmakers regarding the notification and approval requirements with respect to affiliate arrangements and agreements (the Notice).

This move follows recent high-profile incidents involving affiliates of bookmakers and consideration being given to changes to the applicable Code of Practice to provide greater transparency and accountability regarding affiliates engaged to promote bookmakers.

The Notice seeks to clarify some of the obligations under section 81(b) of the Racing and Betting Act 1983 (NT) (the Act) insofar as it relates to affiliate arrangements.

Section 81(b) of the Act provides that a bookmaker who, except with the approval of the Commission, makes an arrangement or enters into an agreement with a person whereby that person becomes entitled to a share in the profits of that business, is guilty of an offence.