Sports Betting Down Under - Which Are The Most Popular Sports Amongst Punters?
Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or just curious, keep reading to discover the most popular sports amongst Australian punters.
Australians are often recognised for their laid-back lifestyle, enjoying their vast landscapes and world-famous beaches. However, many might not realise that beneath their relaxed exterior lies a highly competitive spirit, fuelled by a deep love for sports like rugby, cricket, and soccer. In recent years, Aussies have taken their passion for sports to new heights by placing wagers on their favourite activities, with the average Australian spending nearly $2,500 on gambling annually.
So it’s unsurprising they’d want to cash in on one of their favourite hobbies. And what better way than placing bets on your favourite match? There are hundreds of sportsbook and casinos that incentivise you to put a wagers through many win real money no deposit bonuses. And in case you didn't know, AussieBonuses is a site that’s specifically dedicated to offering gamblers great deals.
Keep reading to discover the most popular sports amongst Australian punters.
1. National Rugby League
What began over a century ago as a way to compensate working-class rugby players for injuries and time away from work during tours has evolved into a phenomenon deeply embedded in Australian culture.
While its storied past adds to its charm, it's the non-stop action on the field that keeps Aussie punters hooked. The season kicks off in March and runs through October, providing plenty of opportunities for bettors to try their luck with total points bets, line bets, and head-to-head matchups. Like all sports, factors such as weather and player injuries can also shake up the odds, making each game unpredictable and all the more thrilling.
2. Cricket
When summer rolls around, it means one thing for Aussie punters: cricket season. From October to April, the focus shifts to this sport, with bettors across the country eagerly tuning in to a range of exciting domestic tournaments like the Big Bash League (BBL) and the Marsh One-Day Cup. But the excitement doesn’t stop there—wagers can also be placed on international events, adding even more action to the mix. The Test Series stands out as a must-watch event, with Australia’s national team going head-to-head against international opponents in multiple thrilling matches. Who wouldn’t want to get in on that action?
3. Horse Racing
For many Australians, horse racing is more than just a sport—it's a way of life and, of course, a fun way to try to earn some extra cash. Since the early 19th century, the sport has garnered legions of loyal fans, thanks to the unbeatable adrenaline rush it offers punters. Despite controversies over the years, including the introduction of new point of consumption (PoC) taxes, horse racing has managed to maintain its popularity. Iconic events like the Melbourne Cup and The Everest remain some of the most anticipated sporting highlights of the season, drawing thousands of spectators and millions of bets nationwide.
4. Soccer
Soccer’s popularity knows no bounds, gaining just as much traction down under, thanks in part to the success of the national team, the Socceroos. Local teams from Australia and New Zealand compete in the A-League, which runs from October to May, offering plenty of betting opportunities.
The Socceroos also compete in major tournaments like the FIFA World Cup, AFC Asian Cup, and the Olympic Games, making them impossible to miss. From betting on goal scorers and match outcomes to total goals, soccer offers punters a chance to engage with the game like never before—with a renewed sense of excitement and, of course, the prospect of taking home some lucrative wins.
5. Basketball
Last but not least, basketball. This entry on our list might surprise some, but the sport’s allure has made its way across the pond. Basketball landed in the land of koalas and kangaroos just six years after its debut in the U.S. and has steadily grown into one of the most popular sports in the country.
In recent years, Australian players like Ben Simmons, Andrew Bogut, Patty Mills, and Josh Giddey have made names for themselves in the NBA, firmly placing Australia on the global basketball map as a country to watch. On the local front, the Australian men’s international team, The Boomers, has won numerous championships worldwide, while the women’s national team, The Opals, has also enjoyed great success.
It’s no wonder Aussie punters are eager to get a slice of this lucrative pie. As basketball continues to grow and evolve, it creates more and more exciting wagering opportunities.