The Australian federal government will make match-fixing into a specific crime. According to Stuff.co.nz, those involved in match-fixing schemes could face up to 10 years in jail and significant fines.
In recent years, Australia’s sports industry has been plagued with many scandals – and local politicians are fed up with the market’s increasingly dubious reputation. Earlier this year, Australian territories announced their dedication to eliminating corruption in sport. Drafting this new legislation is just one of many steps that the government is taking to eliminate sports corruption.
In the past, there was no legal framework for match fixing offences. So, it was easier for athletes and other sports professionals to fix the outcome of particular matches. Now, things will be more difficult with the possibility of ten years in jail hanging over their heads.
Local governments are currently drawing up drafts of the law. They hope to have a legislation passed sometime next year, but some politicians want the law to come into effect before the next National Rugby League season starts.
Around the world, politicians are taking a similar stance against sports corruption. The recent influx of betting scandals has prompted local governments to get serious about the issue.
