A Northern Territory-based bookmaker is close to formalising a deal with NRL clubs Newcastle and Cronulla to set up team-specific websites aimed at encouraging fans to open online betting accounts to gamble on league and other sports.
The two clubs have approached the NRL to approve contractual terms with Betezy.com.au, which has already concluded a deal with the Gold Coast Titans.
Betezy.com.au general manager Ryan Kay said the NRL clubs involved would receive advertising-based commissions based on turnover "which will generate substantial payments for the clubs over the next few years".
NRL director of media and communications John Brady yesterday confirmed the NRL was "looking at the proposals, as we are with a number of other clubs".
"Since the advertising laws involving interstate betting operators were changed last year there has been an influx of interest in betting companies aligning themselves with NRL clubs," Brady said. "The Titans have an arrangement with Betezy already and these new deals are very similar to them, pretty much the same I expect.
"But we have made it very clear that there are stipulations that would have to be in any contract to ensure there was a recognition of the integrity process that is needed not only for the entitlement of the game to get a return from the betting but also for transparency.
"There is a recognition with the betting operators that 'you're making money out of us so give something back'. That would be the same case with anyone else who was making money out of the game.
"As for integrity, that is a central issue of our game whether there is betting involved or not. Right from the under sixes to first grade, integrity is paramount."
Titans chief executive Michael Searle welcomed news that other NRL clubs were set to join forces with Betezy.com.au and other operators.
"The important thing is that this is new revenue to the game that clubs previously didn't have access to," he said. "Anything that derives new revenue for the club and the game can only be a good thing. We've been associated with Betezy since last year and we are more than happy with the relationship. There hasn't been a drama and it has generated income for us."
Searle said there were no concerns that other clubs becoming involved would drain the Titans' ability to make a profit from their deal.
"The thing with the Betezy model is it is more or less a fan-based relationship, so we are targeting Gold Coast Titans supporters," he said.
"I would think it would be the same with the other clubs."
Kay confirmed that the proposals with the Knights and Sharks were the same as that in place with the Titans.
"Like the Titansbet venture, the new ventures have agreed to ensure a high percentage of profits is contributed to the respective club's charities and community projects," Kay said.
He also stressed that the integrity of the NRL was the major priority for all clubs concerned as well as Betezy.com.au, with the NRL having the ability to "veto" any bet types it deems not in the best interests of the game, including betting on penalty counts.
"We will be continually looking at integrity issues. We will be working with the NRL and other sporting bodies to make certain there is always integrity," Kay said. "One thing we are very resolute about is making sure there are never any illegal gambling activities in the sport and we will work with everyone involved to ensure this is achieved." (Credit: Fairfax)
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