Australia's gaming industry mobilises against Northern Territory tax hike
Responsible Wagering Australia (RWA) is urging the Northern Territory Government to reconsider its recent decision to double the gaming annual tax cap on licensed bookmakers and betting exchanges, warning that the measure places local jobs and future investment at serious risk. “The move is economically reckless and risks undermining the Territory’s reputation as a stable and competitive licensing jurisdiction,” the RWA warned.
Decision made without consultation
RWA CEO Kai Cantwell explained that the decision had been made without industry consultation and, crucially, ahead of the Northern Territory Government’s own Racing Industry Review — a review initiated to guide long-term strategies for the wagering and racing sectors.
“RWA has participated meaningfully in the review and eagerly anticipated a new strategic vision for racing in the Territory,” Cantwell said. “This decision, made before the Review has had a chance to lay that strategic vision, has blindsided wagering service providers (WPS) and materially undermines any outcome of the Review.“
“The Review was meant to guide long-term, evidence-based and sensible reform,” Cantwell added. Taking a gaming tax hike decision before its completion, “sends a message that consultation, process and industry sustainability have taken a back seat to short-term revenue grabs,” the Responsible Wagering Australia CEO added.
Jobs at risk?
RWA represents major online wagering service providers (WSPs), many of which are licensed in the Northern Territory and are among its largest private-sector employers. According to the association, these operators directly employ around 600 Territorians in high-skilled roles such as technology, customer service and compliance. When accounting for all licensed wagering providers in the NT, this figure exceeds 1,000 jobs, .
In the 2023 financial year alone, the licensed online wagering industry contributed more than $150 million to the NT economy, including $47.7 million in taxes and levies, $2.5 million in product fees to the NT racing industry, and $46 million in wages to local staff, argued the RWA.
According to Cantwell, the government’s move contradicts its previously stated economic goals.
“The NT Government was elected on a platform of driving economic growth, delivering a competitive tax and investment environment, and attracting private investment,” he said. “Yet this policy decision directly contradicts that commitment and risks undermining investor confidence in the Territory.“
RWA is now urging the Treasurer and Chief Minister to reverse the decision and re-engage with the industry through meaningful dialogue.
“Rather than imposing blunt tax increases, the Government should be working with industry to identify growth opportunities that will ensure the Territory’s continued leadership as a licensing jurisdiction,” Cantwell said.
