In the world of sports betting, arbitrage betting is seen as the holy grail by many — a method that promises risk-free profit by exploiting odds differences between bookmakers. But is it actually legal in Australia? And more importantly, can everyday punters really pull it off?
In this guide, we break down exactly how arbitrage betting works, whether it’s allowed under Australian law, and what to be cautious of if you’re considering giving it a go in 2025.
Is Arbitrage Betting Legal in Australia?
Yes — arbitrage betting is legal in Australia. There are no laws that prohibit punters from using arbitrage strategies. However:
- Bookmakers can and often do limit or suspend accounts that regularly place arbitrage-style bets.
- It’s legal for punters, but not necessarily welcomed by the bookies.
So while you’re not breaking any rules, you’re also playing a game that operators are watching closely.
What Is Arbitrage Betting?
Arbitrage betting (also called “arbing”) is when you place bets on all possible outcomes of a sporting event using different sportsbooks — ensuring a profit regardless of the result due to discrepancies in odds.
It works because:
- Bookmakers set odds independently
- Odds shift frequently
- Some are slow to adjust to market changes
Basic Example:
- Bookie A: Federer to win at 2.10
- Bookie B: Nadal to win at 2.10
- You bet $100 on each outcome
- No matter who wins, you get $210 back from one, and lose $100 on the other → $10 profit
It’s not huge money, but for savvy punters, it can add up consistently.
How to Find Arbitrage Bets
Most arbers use arbitrage software or alert services to track price mismatches across dozens of bookies. These tools scan global odds in real time.
Popular tools (not affiliated with Top Betting Australia) include:
- OddsJam
- BetBurger
- RebelBetting
- SureBet
Or, you can hunt manually by comparing odds across multiple Aussie sportsbooks — but this takes time, patience, and quick maths.
How to Place an Arbitrage Bet in Australia
- Find a market with an odds gap
E.g., AFL match where different bookies favour opposite teams - Calculate your stake amounts
Use an arb calculator to ensure even profit across all outcomes - Place both (or all) bets quickly
Odds move fast — hesitation could destroy the value - Track and log results
Use spreadsheets or betting trackers to manage your profits
Risks & Downsides of Arbitrage Betting
While arbitrage betting sounds foolproof, it’s not without challenges:
- Bookmaker Account Limitations
Many bookies will limit or flag your account if they detect consistent arbing patterns. - Stake Restrictions
Limits on maximum bet size may make arbs unprofitable. - Odds Changes Mid-Bet
If one leg shifts before both are placed, the guaranteed profit vanishes. - Software Costs
Many arb-finding tools charge monthly fees — make sure your profits justify the expense. - Human Error
Mistakes in calculation or mistimed bets can turn sure profit into real loss.
Best Practices for Aussie Arbers
- Spread your action across multiple betting sites
- Avoid max bets that draw attention
- Use different bet types occasionally (not just win/loss)
- Stick to licensed Aussie bookmakers
- Use a VPN cautiously if you’re comparing international odds — but be aware of terms of service
Do Arbitrage Bettors Actually Make Money?
Yes — but it’s usually low margin and high volume. Arbitrage betting can be profitable with discipline, bankroll, and speed. However, it’s not passive income or risk-free in practice.
Most successful arbers:
- Use 5+ betting accounts
- Accept restrictions as part of the game
- Work with spreadsheets, tools, and alerts
- Don’t rely on this as a long-term full-time strategy
Responsible & Legal Betting in Australia
If you’re arbing, remember:
- Use only licensed bookmakers (avoid offshore books)
- You must be 18+ and ID-verified
- All winnings from arbitrage betting are tax-free for individuals in Australia (as of 2025)
Responsible gambling practices still apply — including deposit limits and self-exclusion tools like BetStop if needed.
Final Word: Is Arbitrage Betting Worth Trying?
For patient punters with a solid bankroll, arbitrage betting offers a chance at consistent — albeit modest — profit. It’s not for everyone, but if you enjoy number crunching, market tracking, and outsmarting odds, it might be worth exploring.
Just remember: it’s legal, but not always welcome, so be smart about your strategy and manage your accounts accordingly.
Want to Compare Aussie Bookies for Arbitrage-Friendly Odds?
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