Live sports betting — also known as in-play betting — adds real-time excitement to every goal, try, ace, or basket. Whether you’re watching the AFL, NRL, tennis, or NBA, placing bets during the action gives punters a chance to react instantly to momentum swings and updated odds.
But in Australia, live betting comes with unique legal restrictions. This 2025 guide breaks down everything you need to know about how live betting works, which bookies support it, and how to get the most out of in-play wagers legally.
Is Live Sports Betting Legal in Australia?
Yes — live sports betting is legal, but you can’t place in-play bets online due to the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. Instead, Aussie punters must use:
- Phone betting (call the bookmaker)
- Retail outlets (for some agencies like TAB)
Bookmakers can display live odds online, but you’ll need to call or tap to call if you want to place a bet after the game starts.
How to Place a Live Bet in Australia
Example (with Sportsbet or Bet365):
- Log in to your account
- Tap on the live event you’re watching
- View updated live odds
- Click “Call to Bet” or use the number provided
- Confirm your wager with the operator over the phone
Some apps like Bet365 allow for quick-touch dialling directly from the live market screen.
What Sports Can You Bet on Live?
Most licensed Australian sportsbooks offer live betting for:
- AFL & NRL
- NBA & NFL
- Tennis (ATP, WTA, Grand Slams)
- Cricket (BBL, Test, ODI, T20)
- Soccer (Premier League, A-League, UCL)
- Golf, UFC, and more
Popular in-play markets include:
- Next team/player to score
- Margin at full time
- Over/under live total
- Player performance (points, tries, goals)
- Momentum shift betting
Best Bookies for Live Betting in Australia (2025)
Bet365
- Top pick for live betting
- Updated odds in real time
- Tap-to-call live betting support
- Clean interface for tracking stats and scores
Sportsbet
- Fast call-to-bet function
- Excellent range of live AFL, NRL, and NBA markets
- Live scores, match centres, and bet tracking
TAB
- Strong retail and phone live betting experience
- Ideal for punters who prefer a more traditional outlet
BlueBet
- Local bookie with responsive live odds for phone-in betting
- Friendly for punters who want racing + sport in-play markets
Tips for Smarter In-Play Betting
✅ 1. Watch the Game Live
Don’t rely only on stats — stream or watch the game to spot turning points before they show up in the odds.
✅ 2. Use Momentum to Your Advantage
If a team is surging or dominating possession, live odds may still favour the pre-game favourite — giving you a value opportunity.
✅ 3. Know Your Markets
Stick to what you know. If you follow AFL closely, start with margin markets or first goal scorer live bets.
✅ 4. Be Quick
Live odds move fast. By the time you call, the odds may have shifted — so have your bet amount ready and be decisive.
✅ 5. Manage Bankroll Carefully
Live betting can feel like a rush. Stick to a pre-set limit and avoid chasing losses.
Legal Reminders & Responsible Betting
- You must be 18+ and verified to access live betting
- Only use licensed Australian bookies — not offshore sites
- Live betting cannot be completed entirely online
- Tools like deposit limits, take-a-breaks, and BetStop are available on all legal platforms
Final Thoughts: Is Live Betting Worth It?
Absolutely — if used smartly. Live sports betting can provide unique opportunities to spot value during play, especially for those who follow the sport closely. Whether it’s backing a comeback or reacting to a red card, in-play betting brings punters closer to the action.
Just remember to stay within your limits, always bet with a clear strategy, and use licensed Australian bookmakers.
Ready to Try Live Betting with Trusted Aussie Bookies?
We compare every legal sportsbook in Australia for live odds, mobile experience, and in-play support.
👉 Visit Top Betting Australia — your expert source for live betting tips, app reviews, and in-play sportsbook rankings in 2025.