Rugby League in Australia Passes Integrity Test

The Australian football clubs have been given a clean bill of health from the Victorian Commission for Gambling Regulation after months of suggested corruption and match fixing allegations. For a long time rumours have been circulating that officials and members were making money throwing games but what comes as a great relief to players and gamblers alike there is no evidence to support any of the rumours. The watchdog and regulatory organization the Victorian Commission for Gambling Regulation came into operation on 1 July 2004 following the proclamation of the Gambling Regulation Act of 2003. The Commission assumed responsibility for the regulation of gambling from the Victorian Casino and Gaming Authority, Director of Gaming and Betting and the Director of Casino Surveillance. Developing and reinforcing the Government’s commitment to responsible gambling through measures that assist and protect problem gamblers and those at risk of becoming problem gamblers, their families and the wider community is one of the Commissions mandated activities. The Commission also accepts gambling as a valid activity for many Victorians who are entitled to expect ongoing high standards of service, transparency and accountability from the gambling sector.

The National Rugby was scrutinized by the Commission after allegations surfaced regarding match fixing at a game between the Sydney Roosters and North Queensland Cowboys. Although the Roosters were at the bottom of the tables, TAB Sportsbet opened them as favourite, with the option of betting on the Cowboys to win by 13-points-plus, the best odds, except for a draw. The Sydney Roosters led 16-6 at halftime, but lost at the end with the North Queensland Cowboys winning the game 32 to 16. The NRL said it has fully and properly investigated the matter and recognised the importance of protecting the integrity of the sport.

The NRL was approved by the VCGR last year as a body that could offer sports betting and control all forms of corruption. The approvals were granted only after rigorous measures were put in place to protect the integrity of football.