Confusion over Queensland minimum bet limit policy

RACING powerbrokers have yet to explain why Queensland will not adopt minimum bet legislation which is used by southern states.

Racing Queensland board chairman Steve Wilson and Racing Minister Grace Grace.

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RACING powerbrokers have yet to explain why Queensland will not adopt minimum bet legislation which is used by southern states.

The mixed messages out of Racing Queensland continued on Wednesday as Racing Minister Grace Grace jetted away on annual leave.

Racing Queensland has refused to clarify its position on the minimum bet limit in the face of scathing criticism since The Courier-Mail revealed there was no intention to introduce laws to compel online corporate bookmakers to bet punters to lose at least $1000.

The minister’s office confirmed that the decision had been made in consultation with Racing Queensland but RQ officers later distanced themselves from the situation, tweeting: “As previously stated RQ does not have the power to introduce MBL under legislative framework’’.

The rule was brought in by NSW and Victoria in 2014 to appease the growing number of punters who were being restricted by corporate bookmakers.

RQ did not respond to an approach for comment yesterday.

New RQ chief executive Dr Elliot Forbes has been under fire from punting lobby groups and Fair Wagering Australia has called for his resignation with a vote of no confidence.

RQ board chairman Steve Wilson last night defended the embattled CEO, saying he was “delighted” to have Forbes at the helm.

“The board has full confidence in CEO Dr Elliot Forbes who we’re delighted to have in the rebuild of Racing Queensland,” he said.

RQ indicated last year that rules would be implemented in the recently completed Race Information Fees deal between corporate bookmakers and the industry.

A number of high-level punters yesterday said they would no longer bet in Queensland in light of the revelations.

Professional punter Daniel O’Sullivan said the policy would see Queensland’s market share continue to dwindle.

“It defies logic that an industry will grow and prosper over the long-term by allowing policy which turns away customers that are willing to contribute revenue, under the same terms and conditions as other customers,” he said.

Originally published as Confusion over Queensland minimum bet limit policy