Australia Northern Territory doubles tax cap for bookmakers

Responsible Wagering Australia (RWA) said the move is “economically reckless”.

Australia.- The Northern Territory government is to double the annual tax cap applicable to licensed corporate bookmakers and betting exchanges from 1m to 2m revenue units from July 1. There will be a new uniform tax rate of 50 per cent for all internet gambling licensees.

The change is expected to bring in an extra AU$13.1m (US$8.4m) in additional tax income each year. The announcement was made as part of the state’s 2025-26 Budget and will be brought in by amending the Racing and Wagering Act 2024. The government expects tax from bookmakers for 2025-26 to reach AU$32.6m, while betting exchange tax is expected to reach AU$2.9m.

Overall, the gambling tax take for 2025-26 could reach AU$145m. That would be an increase of 25.5 per cent in year-on-year terms. Other taxes, like community gaming machine tax, lotteries tax, community benefit levy, and wagering tax, will remain at the same level as before.

Responsible Wagering Australia (RWA) said the move is “economically reckless and risks undermining the Territory’s reputation as a stable and competitive licensing jurisdiction.” CEO Kai Cantwell said the decision was taken without industry consultation and before the final report of the Northern Territory Government’s own Racing Industry Review.

He said: “RWA have participated meaningfully in the review and eagerly anticipated a new strategic vision for racing in the Territory. This decision, made before the Review has had a chance to lay that strategic vision, has blindsided WSPs and materially undermines any outcome of the Review.

“RWA members have proudly supported the Territory for years, investing in people, infrastructure, and long-term economic growth. We will continue to advocate for a licensing environment in the Northern Territory that upholds the highest standards of consumer protection while also incentivising businesses to invest in the local economy.  

“RWA members are all licensed in the Northern Territory, directly employing around 600 Territorians in high-skilled roles across technology, customer service, and compliance – a figure that rises to over 1,000 when including all wagering service providers licensed in the Territory.” 

Cantwell called on the treasurer and chief minister to reconsider this decision and to “engage in genuine consultation with the industry before moving forward.”