Queensland set to adopt Minimum Bet Limit framework

Racing Minister Grace Grace has accepted a recommendation from Racing Queensland to introduce a Minimum Bet Limit framework for Queensland.

Ms Grace wrote to Racing Queensland in February requesting that it consider all issues regarding the implementation of minimum bet limits in Queensland.

“Racing Queensland voted to approve a Minimum Bet Limit framework in March,” Ms Grace said.

“This followed a period of consultation involving wagering operators, racing authorities in New South Wales and Victoria and other stakeholders.

“It will bring Queensland into line with the major southern racing jurisdictions in a further sign of the stronger commercial focus we’re bringing to the local racing industry.”

Ms Grace said the government would amend racing regulations to enable Racing Queensland to implement a Minimum Bet Limit framework.

“This will require a further period of stakeholder consultation with a view towards early implementation in coming months,” she said.

Racing Queensland CEO Dr Eliot Forbes said:

“I want to thank Minister Grace for engaging with Racing Queensland on this issue, and I look forward to working with her to implement minimum bet limits in Queensland for the betterment of the industry.

“The recommendation follows a period of consultation that was conducted as part of a wider review of race information fees and ongoing monitoring of frameworks in place interstate.”

The framework recommended by the Racing Queensland Board:

• Applies only to Queensland thoroughbred racing;
• Includes minimum bet amounts of $2,000 for metropolitan thoroughbred meetings and $1,000 for non-metropolitan thoroughbred race meetings;
• Applies from 9am on the morning of the race; and
• Excludes retail cash betting and bets from commission agents or other wagering operators.

Media contact: Martin Philip 0427 919 548