Compare the Best Australian Sports Betting Sites 2023

Looking for trustworthy Australian betting sites? Our comprehensive guide ranks and recommends the top bookmakers, explains key features, legalities, and highlights popular sports and markets. 

Best Sports betting sites in Australia

Welcome to the dynamic world of Australian betting sites. Discover a comprehensive compilation of leading bookmakers, carefully curated to provide you with essential information about each platform. Explore our concise summaries below and embark on your thrilling journey into the realm of online wagering

Picklebet

Picklebet is a leading Australian bookmaker that specializes in esports betting. Established in 2017, Picklebet quickly gained popularity among esports enthusiasts by offering a wide range of esports markets. While their primary focus is esports, they also provide markets for traditional sports and leagues. 

With a user-friendly website and intuitive mobile app, Picklebet ensures a seamless betting experience for customers. Their commitment to customer service is evident through their responsive live chat feature and helpful support team. 

Picklebet's strengths lie in their extensive esports offerings, user-friendly platform, and solid odds. They have become a go-to option for those passionate about esports betting. However, for customers seeking a broader range of traditional sports markets, other bookmakers may be more suitable. 

Overall, Picklebet caters to the growing demand for esports betting in Australia. Their dedication to esports, high-quality platform, and responsive customer service make them a noteworthy choice for esports enthusiasts looking to place bets on their favorite games and tournaments. 

MidasBet  

MidasBet is a new player in the Australian bookmaking scene, established in 2022. It stands out for its commendable customer service, featuring a 24/7 live chat, and substantial racing markets. The sign-up process is straightforward, and the platform offers a secure betting environment, satisfactory banking options, and a fast payout speed. 

However, MidasBet could improve its sports market variety and expand its betting options. Currently, it lacks a mobile app, limiting the optimal betting experience for mobile users. Despite these areas for improvement, MidasBet shows promise with a strong focus on customer support and racing markets, marking it as a potential strong competitor in the Australian betting industry. 

Draftstars

Established in 2016, Draftstars has quickly ascended to become Australia's premier platform for fantasy sports betting, enhancing the experience with a user-friendly website and superior mobile app. This unique bookmaker deviates from the norm by empowering users to create their own fantasy teams, competing in tournaments driven by real-world player performances. 

Although Draftstars shines with its innovative betting offerings and stellar app, it falls short in areas like limited customer support and fewer payment options compared to competitors. Despite these shortcomings, it's highly regarded by those seeking a dynamic way to bet on fantasy sports. To sum up, while there's room for improvement, Draftstars remains an appealing choice due to its thrilling approach to daily fantasy sports betting.

PlayUp

PlayUp is a relatively new player in the Australian sports betting industry, having entered the market in 2019. Despite its short time in the industry, PlayUp has quickly gained recognition and established itself as one of the best bookmakers in several key areas. Their website and mobile app are clean, easy to navigate, and offer a seamless user experience. Additionally, their customer service sets a high standard, with support available 24/7 through live chat, phone, and email. 

While PlayUp has its strengths, such as a high-quality website, an excellent mobile app, and top-notch customer service, it does have a few weaknesses. The variety of sports and markets offered is somewhat limited compared to some of its competitors. However, if a high-quality overall betting experience is what matters most to you, then PlayUp is definitely worth considering. 

Despite being a newcomer, PlayUp has made impressive strides in the industry. Their website and mobile app are user-friendly and efficient, ensuring a smooth betting experience. The availability of 24/7 customer support sets them apart from many other bookmakers. Although they have room for improvement in terms of the range of sports and markets, PlayUp's strong foundation positions them as a formidable player in the industry, with the potential to become one of the best bookmakers overall. 

WinnersBet 

WinnersBet is a new entrant in the saturated Australian sports betting market. Founded in 2020 by well-known bookmaker 'Da He,' the platform focuses on racing and offers competitive odds and a wide range of markets in this area. Their website is user-friendly, providing a streamlined betting experience, and customer service is decent with live chat, email, and FAQs available. However, there is no phone support. While the sports market variety is average, popular sports like AFL, NRL, cricket, and basketball are covered. WinnersBet shows promise but has room for improvement.  

The platform lacks in sports odds and availability compared to established competitors. Nevertheless, it provides a smooth betting experience, particularly for racing enthusiasts, and offers potential for growth and market expansion. With improvements in odds and additional sports markets, WinnersBet could become a strong player in the industry. 

How We Rate the Best Australian Betting Sites 

Our mission is to make your online betting journey easier and more enjoyable. To do this, we've developed a thorough process to handpick, rank, and review the best bookmakers, ensuring you have all the information you need to make informed decisions. 

• Betting Markets: We delve into the diversity of betting options each bookmaker provides, ensuring a wide range of choices. 
• Odds and Payouts: We analyze the odds and payouts, ensuring they are competitive and offer good value. 
• Offers, Promotions, and Bonuses: We investigate the range of incentives, prioritising those that reward both new and loyal users. 

• Banking: We evaluate the ease and speed of deposit and withdrawal processes, as well as the variety of payment methods available. 
• Features: We value bookmakers that offer live streaming, live chat, and live betting, enhancing your betting experience. 
• Mobile and Apps: We ensure each bookmaker's platform is compatible with mobile devices, allowing you to bet wherever you are. 
• Licensing and Regulation: We confirm that each bookmaker is licensed and regulated by a reputable authority, ensuring your safety and security. 
• User Experience: We assess the overall user experience, including the ease of the sign-up process and the quality of customer support. 

• Security and Reputation: We verify each bookmaker's reputation and the security measures they have in place to protect your information and funds. 

Through our detailed selection process, we aim to provide you with the most reliable and user-friendly bookmakers in the industry. 

Best Betting Features 

The features offered by a bookmaker can greatly enhance your betting experience. Here are some must-have features that can make your betting more enjoyable and potentially more profitable: 

• Live Streaming: Watch games live directly on the bookmaker's site, making your betting experience more immersive and allowing you to react to the action as it happens. 

• Live Betting: Bet during the game, adjusting your bets based on the live action and potentially taking advantage of favourable situations as they occur. 
• Enhanced Odds: These are special, higher-than-usual odds offered on certain events, giving you the chance for bigger winnings and adding value to your bets. 
• Bet Builder: Craft your own unique bet by combining different markets from the same event, giving you the freedom to bet in a way that suits your strategy and preferences. 
• Cash Out: Settle your bet before the event ends, locking in a profit or reducing a potential loss, giving you more control over the outcome of your bets. 
• Social Betting: This feature allows you to follow and copy bets from other successful punters, providing a social element to betting and potentially improving your betting strategy. 

• No-Limits Betting: This feature allows high-stakes betting without a cap on potential winnings, which is ideal for experienced punters who want to bet big. 
• Same Game Multis: This feature allows you to combine multiple bets from the same game into one, increasing the potential payout.  

Australia's Preferred Sports for Betting 

Australia's vibrant sports culture offers a plethora of betting opportunities. Here are six sports that have captured the hearts of Aussie punters. 

• AFL: The Australian Football League, with its unique blend of skill and physicality, is a favourite among Australian punters. The unpredictable nature of matches and the variety of betting markets make it a thrilling choice.
• NRL: The National Rugby League is deeply rooted in Australia's sports culture. The intense competition and the strategic depth of the game provide a wealth of exciting betting opportunities.
• Horse Racing: Horse racing is a time-honored tradition in Australia, with iconic events like the Melbourne Cup drawing global attention. The wide range of races and betting options make it a popular choice for punters.
• Basketball: With the rise of the National Basketball League (NBL) and Australian players making their mark in the NBA, basketball betting is on the upswing. The high-scoring, fast-paced games make it an exciting option for bettors.
• Soccer (Football): With the increasing popularity of the A-League and Australia's participation in international competitions, soccer betting is growing. The global reach of the sport offers a multitude of betting opportunities.
• Greyhound Racing: Greyhound racing, with its quick and frequent races, has a dedicated following among Australian punters. The simplicity of the betting options makes it an attractive choice. 

From the uniquely Australian AFL to the fast-paced action of greyhound racing, there's a sport for every punter in Australia. A deep understanding of the sport and its competitors can significantly enhance your betting experience. 

Horse Racing Betting Sites 

Horse racing holds a prominent place in Australian culture, making it a popular choice for bettors across the nation. Punters are drawn to prestigious races like the Melbourne Cup and Caulfield Cup, each hosting a rich history and competitive spirit. Betting sites offer diverse markets such as 'Win', 'Place', 'Each Way', and 'Quinella', providing both excitement and strategic opportunities for players. The allure of horse racing lies in its mix of skill and chance, where understanding a horse's form and the impact of track conditions can often lead to rewarding outcomes. 

NRL Betting Sites 

Rugby league, epitomised by the National Rugby League (NRL), is a favourite Australian pastime. Passionate fans often carry their love for teams like the Sydney Roosters or South Sydney Rabbitohs into the betting sphere. NRL offers dynamic markets such as 'Head to Head', 'First Try Scorer', and 'Line Betting', which keeps players engaged due to the unpredictability and high-scoring nature of the matches. The thrill of predicting game outcomes and individual performances is what makes NRL betting a widely favoured choice among Australian bettors. 

AFL Betting Sites 

AFL (Australian Football League) embodies the Australian spirit of 'fair go' and sportsmanship, making it a beloved sport to bet on. Key events like the AFL Grand Final attract huge betting interest. Markets like 'Margin Betting', 'Goal Scorer', and 'Handicap Betting' offer varied strategies for bettors, feeding into the excitement of this high-paced sport. The diverse range of outcomes in AFL, including scoring, disposals, and tackles, provide numerous opportunities for speculation, keeping Australian punters consistently engaged and entertained. 

Most Popular Betting Markets in Australia 

The Australian sports betting market is as varied as it is dynamic, offering a wide array of markets, betting types, and odds. Here's a closer look at some of the most popular ones.  

• Moneyline: This is a simple bet on the outright winner of a match. For instance, in a Rugby Union match between the Wallabies and the All Blacks, you might see odds like Wallabies 2.10, All Blacks 1.75. This bet is popular due to its simplicity and directness
• Point Spread: This bet involves a favourite and an underdog. The favourite needs to win by a certain number of points (the spread) for the bet to pay out. For example, if the Brisbane Lions are -4.5 against the Gold Coast Suns in an AFL match, they need to win by 5 points or more for a bet on them to win.  
• Over/Under: Also known as totals betting, this involves betting on whether the total points scored in a game will be over or under a specified number. For example, in an A-League match, you might bet on whether the total goals scored by both teams will be over or under 2.5. 
• Futures: These are bets on long-term outcomes, like who will win the AFL Grand Final or the NRL Premiership. Because these bets are long-term, they can offer substantial payouts if you pick correctly.
• Parlay: A parlay involves multiple bets on one ticket. All selections must win for the parlay to pay out, but the potential payout is significantly higher. For example, you might bet on the Melbourne Victory, Melbourne Storm, and Melbourne Stars to win.
• Single Game Betting: This is a bet on a single game or match, such as a Big Bash League game between the Melbourne Stars and the Sydney Sixers. You can bet on various aspects of the game, including the winner, the point spread, or the total points scored. 

Understanding these popular betting markets can open up a world of opportunities for your betting strategy. Each market has its own unique appeal and level of risk, so it's crucial to consider your betting approach and risk tolerance when making your selections.

Mastering the Art of Betting Odds 

Betting odds play a vital role in sports betting, serving as a reflection of the probability of a specific outcome and the potential payout from a winning bet. In Australia, we typically use decimal odds. 

Consider this scenario: if the Melbourne Storm has odds of 1.80 for their next NRL match, this means that for every dollar you bet, you could win $1.80 if the Storm triumphs. This payout includes your original stake, so your profit would be $0.80. 

Here's another example: if you place a $15 bet on the Adelaide Crows to win an AFL game at odds of 2.25, a victory for the Crows would result in a total return of $33.75, which includes your $15 stake and $18.75 in winnings. 

Understanding how to read and interpret odds is a crucial skill in sports betting, as it helps you evaluate the potential risks and rewards of each bet, empowering you to make more informed and strategic betting decisions. 

Kickstart Your Online Betting Journey in Australia: A Step-by-Step Guide 

Starting your online betting journey in Australia is an exhilarating experience, filled with anticipation and potential rewards. It's a world where sports passion meets strategic decision-making, and where every game can become even more thrilling. However, this new adventure can also bring about questions and uncertainties, especially if you're just starting out. 

To assist you in this process, we've crafted a straightforward, step-by-step guide designed to demystify the world of online betting. This guide will walk you through the essentials, from choosing a reputable sportsbook to placing your first bet. By following these steps, you'll not only gain a solid understanding of how online betting works, but you'll also be on your way to experiencing the excitement and thrill that online sports betting has to offer. 

• Step 1: Choose a Trustworthy Online Sportsbook: Your first step is to select a reliable online sportsbook. Look for the best betting sites that are licensed, have a good reputation, offer a wide variety of sports, and have a user-friendly platform. 
• Step 2: Register for a New Account: After choosing a sportsbook, you'll need to register for an account. This typically involves providing some basic personal information and setting up a secure password. 
• Step 3: Learn About Different Betting Options: Before placing your first bet, familiarise yourself with the different betting options available. Understanding the various betting markets and how odds work will help you make more informed betting decisions. 
• Step 4: Deposit Funds into Your Account: Once your account is set up, you'll need to deposit funds. Most sportsbooks offer a range of payment options, including credit/debit cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets. Choose the method that's most convenient for you. 

• Step 5: Place Your First Bet: Now that your account is funded, you're ready to place your first bet. Choose the sport and match you're interested in, select your bet, and confirm your wager. 
• Step 6: Manage Your Winnings and Withdrawals: Keep track of your bets and winnings. When you're ready to withdraw your winnings, navigate to the cashier section, select 'withdraw', choose your preferred withdrawal method, and enter the amount you wish to withdraw. 

Remember, the goal of betting is to have fun and enjoy the game. Always bet responsibly and within your means.  

Streamlining Your Deposits and Withdrawals 

In the world of online betting, getting to grips with the banking process is essential. It's important to understand how to fund your account and cash out your winnings. Let's take a look at the most popular banking methods for Australian bookmakers. 

Most Popular Deposit Methods 

The general deposit methods in Australian bookmakers include credit and debit cards, e-wallets, bank transfers, and prepaid cards. These methods are favoured due to their user-friendly nature, speed, and security. 

Top Deposit Methods 

VISA and MasterCard: These credit and debit cards are globally accepted and provide quick, secure transactions. Their universal acceptance and user-friendly nature make them a popular choice. 

• POLi: This online payment method enables you to conduct transactions straight from your bank account. Its ease of use and immediate fund transfers make it a popular choice among users. 
• BPay: This electronic bill payment service is secure and easy to use, allowing payments directly from your bank account. 
• Bank Transfers: allows you to move funds directly from your bank account to your betting account. Its robust security measures and the autonomy it provides over transactions make it a preferred choice. 
• Other deposit methods: paysafecard, EFT, Paypal, Apple Pay, Flexepin, Neteller, and Skrill. 

Deposit Procedure 

• Depositing funds into your online betting account is a simple process: 
• Sign into your betting account. 
• Go to the 'Deposit' or 'Banking' section. 
• Choose your desired deposit method. 

• Input the amount you want to deposit. 
• Follow the instructions to finalise the transaction. 

Withdrawal Procedure 

• Cashing out your winnings is equally straightforward: 
• Sign into your betting account. 

• Go to the 'Withdraw' or 'Banking' section. 
• Choose your desired withdrawal method. 
• Input the amount you want to withdraw. 
• Follow the instructions to finalise the transaction. 

Mastering the banking process is integral to a hassle-free online betting experience. By acquainting yourself with the prevalent deposit and withdrawal methods, you can ensure a streamlined and safe betting journey. It's always wise to review the terms and conditions of each banking method to ascertain it aligns with your requirements. 

Australian Betting Sites Bonuses and Promotions 

In the context of Australian betting, the promotion of betting rewards such as initial deposit bonuses and free bets is heavily regulated. Consequently, we are unable to advertise or provide details about specific bonuses that Australian betting sites might offer. 

That being said, it's important to understand that betting sites often have certain incentives available to punters once they've established an account and made their first deposit. To ascertain what incentives you could qualify for, you must have an account with a betting site.   

While we can't divulge specifics, we can inform you that betting sites have typically offered a range of incentives to enrich the betting experience. To investigate potential incentives, we recommend creating a free betting account, which doesn't obligate you to play or deposit money. Always ensure to check the terms and conditions of any incentives to ensure they align with your betting strategy. 

Exploring Betting Platforms: Mobile and Desktop 

The landscape of online betting is ever-changing, with advancements in technology shaping the way we place bets. Mobile betting has emerged as a game-changer, offering the flexibility to place bets from anywhere, anytime. However, desktop betting remains a solid choice for many, providing a comprehensive and stable betting platform. Regardless of the platform, the emphasis on security and safety is paramount, ensuring a secure betting environment. 

Desktop Betting: The Traditional Route 

Desktop betting offers a traditional and reliable betting experience. The advantage of a larger screen allows for a more detailed view of betting markets, odds, and statistics, making it ideal for those who prefer a thorough analysis. Additionally, the consistent internet connection of a desktop provides a smooth betting experience, free from potential mobile network interruptions. 

Mobile Apps: Betting on the Go 

Mobile betting apps have transformed the betting landscape, bringing the excitement of betting directly to your pocket. These apps offer the ultimate convenience, allowing you to place bets, check odds, and follow live scores on the move. Many apps also provide features like push notifications for bet updates, live streaming of events, and quick deposit and withdrawal options. 

Mobile Desktop and Mobile Apps Comparison 

Choosing the Best Betting App 

When it comes to choosing the best betting app, consider factors like user interface, the range of betting markets, the availability of live streaming, and the speed of deposits and withdrawals. Also, ensure the app's security measures to protect your data and funds. Reading reviews from other users can also provide valuable insights. The best app for you should align with your betting needs and preferences 

Legal Online Sports Betting in Australia 

As you delve into the realm of online betting in Australia, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the legal aspects that govern the industry. From the legal age for betting to advertising restrictions, here's what you need to know. 

Key Legal Considerations: 

• Legal Age for Betting: In Australia, individuals must be at least 18 years old to engage in legal betting activities. It is essential to adhere to this age requirement to participate in online betting responsibly. 
• Licensing and Regulation: Australian betting sites must hold valid licenses and adhere to strict regulations to ensure fairness, transparency, and consumer protection. Look for licensed operators to ensure a safe betting environment. 

• Advertising Guidelines: Australian laws impose restrictions on the advertising of betting promotions to protect vulnerable individuals and prevent excessive exposure. Operators must comply with these guidelines when promoting their services. 
• In-Play Betting Restrictions: While pre-event betting is permitted in Australia, in-play or live betting on sporting events is generally prohibited. This restriction aims to maintain the integrity of sports competitions. 
• State and Territory Variations: Each state and territory in Australia may have specific regulations related to betting and gambling. It's important to be aware of these variations to understand the legal framework that applies in your location. 

By understanding and adhering to the legal considerations, you can ensure a safe and responsible online betting experience in Australia. Remember, gambling should be enjoyed within your means and in compliance with the law 

Betting User Experience 

An outstanding betting user experience is underpinned by several key aspects: 

• Simplicity and Clarity: The platform should be designed with simplicity in mind, making it easy for users to navigate and find the information they need. 
• Speed and Reliability: The platform should load quickly and operate reliably, ensuring that users can place bets without any delays or glitches. 

• Mobile Adaptability: With the rise of mobile betting, it's essential that the platform is fully optimised for mobile use, whether through a responsive mobile website or a dedicated app. 
• Diverse Betting Options: The platform should offer a broad range of betting options, catering to the varied interests of its users. 
• Secure and Hassle-free Transactions: Depositing and withdrawing funds should be a secure and hassle-free process, with a variety of payment options available to suit different user needs. 
• Effective Customer Support: Quality customer support is crucial. Users should be able to easily reach out for help, and the support team should be responsive, knowledgeable, and capable of resolving issues efficiently. This aspect of the user experience can significantly enhance user satisfaction and trust in the platform. 

If you're stepping into the online betting scene in Australia, you might have a few queries. To assist you, we've assembled a list of commonly asked questions and provided succinct, clear responses. From the legality of betting to the steps taken to promote responsible gambling, we've got the information you need.