Following the decision announced by ACMA yesterday, Lottoland has commenced proceedings against the federal government. This quote from Lottoland from the SMH story plays until current debate about freedom of expression and beliefs:
“We are fighting for freedom of choice.”
Talk about tugging at heartstrings. I hope people see this argument for what it is … nonsense. I think Lottoland is fighting to sell its gambling products. Punters are their customers, not a movement of people who feel aggrieved about their rights.
Here is a more complete statement from Lottoland at iGamingBusiness.com:
Lottoland is disputing the ACMA’s decision, and has launched legal proceedings.
“We have decided to challenge ACMA in the Supreme Court because we believe their view on jackpot betting is wrong,” Lottoland Australia chief executive Luke Brill said in a statement issued to iGamingBusiness.com.
“Lottoland’s jackpot betting products have been approved by the relevant licensing authorities, and we believe they are fully compliant with Australian law.
“We have worked hard to adapt to recent changes to the law, and we are committed to providing exciting new products that our customers love,” he explained. “By taking this stand against ACMA, we are fighting for the rights of hundreds of thousands of Australians who enjoy the occasional flutter. We are fighting for freedom of choice.”
It will be interesting to see how this plays out. I suspect the issue has a long way to go yet given the stakes and the apparent resources of the international Lottoland business.
Remember, Lottoland launched in Australia mocking newsagents, denigrating our channel, those who worked in it and even some who shopped with us.
If the Lottoland ad I saw earlier tonight was any indication its clear they have no intention of leaving the Australian market or discontinuing their offerings of bets on the big jackpots like those in the US.