Australia is the land of kangaroos, barbies and decent cricket. The sun, sea and stubbies lifestyle is fantastic and many Aussies are partial to a flutter.

World famous internet betting exchange Betfair has established Australian markets on their site to the benefit of punters everywhere.

But ever since Betfair recieved a license from Tasmania the naysayers that do not want a betting exchange in Australia have been trying to thwart the English based company.

Betfair has received a lot of criticism down-under from both traditional bookies who believe the site takes away business and the government, who are unbale to tax the massive turnover generated.

So the news wasn’t good at the start of December, as the anti-gambling brigade scored a big victory when the West Australian parliament passed a law making it illegal in the state of Western Australia for anyone to use a betting exchange account.

The Betting and Racing Legislation Bill bans the operation of exchanges and specifically prohibits West Australians from using them.

For those that wish to contravene the laws a possible two year jail sentence awaits or a steep fine of $10000 AUD.