Prime Minister Julia Gillard's administration in Australia is reportedly receiving pressure to introduce new measures to regulate the online gaming and sportsbook software industry.
The Australian government has been holding discussions on the terms of a new gambling bill that was advocated by independent members. According to a report on BookMakers Inc., many people in the industry are frustrated with debates by the Gillard administration, which saw the gambling industry appropriated by ministers looking for political advantage.
State governments also reportedly voiced concerns as to how the restrictive proposals will have an impact on revenue streams as well as tourism and employment opportunities.
Other institutions have indicated the potential impact of government action on up and coming ventures. An investigation made by Monash University showed that each year Australians spend an average of AUS$300m on online poker and it is thought that the figure will continue to rise after the upcoming $185m merger between Centrebet and Sportingbet.
