Australian punters who lost money using Entain’s Fast Code betting service have been automatically included in a class action claiming the product broke federal gambling laws.
The case covers eligible in-play bets placed through the Neds and Ladbrokes brands between 4 March 2019 and 4 March 2025.
The Supreme Court of Victoria ordered Entain to contact potential group members and explain their rights. Eligible customers do not need to take any steps to join the action. Anyone who wants to stay out must formally opt out by 8 October 2026.
Entain denies that Fast Code operated unlawfully and is defending the claim.
How the Fast Code System Worked
Australian law generally bans online bets placed after a sporting event has started. An exception exists only when the entire wager is conducted by telephone.
With Fast Code, customers first selected an in-play bet on the Neds or Ladbrokes website or app. The system then generated a short code that the customer read out during a phone call to finalise the bet.
The class action argues this process was not conducted wholly by telephone because key betting details had already been entered online.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority earlier found that similar Fast Code and Quick Code products did not comply with the Interactive Gambling Act. It chose not to take enforcement action after the operators adjusted their systems.
The dispute highlights how closely Australian authorities scrutinise the way digital gambling products are offered. Readers looking at the broader online gambling market can explore our guide to online casinos and learn more about real money casinos available to Australian players.
Entain Launches Counterclaim Over Paid Winnings
The claim seeks refunds for customers who allegedly lost money through the service. Entain maintains that its later version of Fast Codes were generic codes created before events began and were not tied to individual in-play selections.
The company has also filed a counterclaim. It argues that if losing bets are ruled unlawful and must be refunded, then Entain should be allowed to recover any winnings it previously paid out through the same system.
The court has not yet decided the allegations. Official details on eligibility and the opt-out process are available from the Supreme Court of Victoria.
Pokie Inc will continue following the progress of the Entain Fast Code class action and any related regulatory developments.
