4/3/2001 The impact of the proposed ban on Internet gambling on Australian companies
The proposal to ban Australian companies from offering online gaming in Australia could cost TAB tens of millions worth of bets its Web site is expected to take this financial year. Despite the fact that the Internet is TAB's cheapest distribution channel, analysts do believe that the impact will be short term, as punters will simply return to gambling the way they did before the advent of the Internet. In addition, it is believed that the ban may exclude sports wagering operators. Tabcorp, on the other hand, faces a number of threats. Not only will it not be able to offer casino-style products online as planned but it faces a poker machine levy proposed by Premier Bracks to help fund a cut in payroll tax.
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