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Responsible Wagering Australia (RWA) has slammed the Northern Territory Government’s surprise decision to double the annual tax cap on licensed online betting companies.
RWA CEO Kai Cantwell expressed serious concern that the move could hurt the Territory’s reputation as a stable licensing jurisdiction.
The industry body represents online Wagering Service Providers, who employ around 600 local staff directly. This number jumps to over 1,000 when counting all wagering providers licensed in the Territory.
These aren’t just any jobs – they’re high-skilled roles in tech, customer service and compliance. Many RWA members have invested heavily in local infrastructure over the years.
The timing has particularly frustrated the wagering industry. NT officials announced the tax hike before finalising its own Racing Industry Review – a process specifically launched to create sustainability plans for the racing and wagering sectors.
Cantwell argued: “This decision has blindsided WSPs and materially undermines any outcome of the Review.”
The industry contributed more than $150m to the Northern Territory economy just last year. This included nearly $48m in taxes and levies, $2.5m for NT racing and $46m in local wages.
RWA members have reportedly supported the Territory for years, investing in people, infrastructure and long-term economic growth.
The Territory Government doubled the annual bookmaker and betting exchange tax cap without talking to affected businesses first. The increase was revealed in the Northern Territory Budget released 13 May.
RWA had been participating in the government’s review process and anticipated a new strategic vision for racing in the Territory.
But instead of waiting for this process to conclude, officials pushed ahead with the tax increase. The move was described as ‘economically reckless’ by industry representatives.
The tax hike reportedly contradicts Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro’s own platform of driving economic growth and creating a competitive investment environment, according to the RWA.
Finocchiaro previously stated the Territory is “open for business” and passed legislation to “strengthen our ability to deliver economic growth and attract investment.”
Cantwell said: “It sends a message that consultation, process and industry sustainability have taken a back seat to short-term revenue grabs.”
The industry is now calling on the Treasurer and Chief Minister to reconsider. They want official consultation before moving forward with any changes.
RWA argues that a financially sustainable and well-regulated racing and wagering industry is critical for the Territory’s economic future.
The announcement arrives shortly after concerns were raised by RWA in Queensland. In March 2025, the government had launched its own Racing Industry Reviews after concerns that increased taxation had jeopardised long-term sector viability and reduced wagering activity.
RWA reportedly have a reputation of being consistent with providing caution against excessive taxation across jurisdictions, stressing that it can deter investment and even lead to reduced funding for community programmes and racing.
