Queensland reopens sports betting

The Live Entertainment Industry Forum, which represents the sector, welcomed the state government’s decision to reopen the sports betting business after the lockdown.

State health minister Steven Miles announced that up to 2,000 fans at a time would be permitted into stadia from this Saturday as a trial. It was a move endorsed as sensible by LEIF chairman James Sutherland, but it was far from economically viable for the sector.

“Live entertainment is a huge part of the Australian way of life and its also the livelihood of thousands of Queenslanders, predominantly young female employees who have had a tough time for three months without employment.

While recognising the necessity to protect health, the long-term health and viability of the sector was also important, he said.

“This is an encouraging move in the right direction and we look forward to similar announcements around the country.”