Consumer and Business Services’ (CBS) approach to breaches of gambling laws is risk-based. We consider factors such as the seriousness of the conduct, the actual or potential harm, whether vulnerable people are affected, whether the conduct is systemic or repeated, and the available evidence when deciding what action to take.

Depending on the legislation and circumstances, action may include:

  • education or a warning
  • corrective intervention
  • an assurance or undertaking
  • an expiation notice
  • disciplinary action
  • civil action
  • prosecution.

Disciplinary action

The Gambling Administration Act 2019 gives South Australia’s Liquor and Gambling Commissioner a range of disciplinary powers that can apply to gambling providers.

Depending on the circumstances, these can include:

  • a reprimand or fine
  • varying the conditions of an authorisation
  • suspending or cancelling an authorisation
  • disqualifying a person from holding an authorisation or being approved under a gambling Act.

For authorised interstate betting operators, the Commissioner may also direct the winding up of South Australian betting operations or prohibit the operator from conducting betting operations in South Australia.

Alternatives to disciplinary action also exist.

  • A compliance notice can avoid disciplinary action if the gambling provider takes required action in a specific timeframe.
  • Paying a default notice which is not a formal fine.
  • Injunctive remedies involving orders by the Licensing Court of South Australia to comply with a provision of a gambling act or a condition of a licence/authorisation.

CBS continues to monitor businesses and licensees that have been subject to compliance or enforcement action to ensure their practices have changed and they are complying with the law.

More information about CBS’ enforcement approach is available in the CBS compliance and enforcement strategy, along with the current priority areas.

Outcomes and actions

Enforcement actions are subject to the CBS Publication Policy and published below.