Betting Bonuses in Australia - (December 2024)

Betting bonuses can really help improve your betting journey & bankroll so I’ll be chatting about all things to do with free bets. I’ll show you some of the top Horse racing sites with bonuses and tell you how to take advantage with OnlyRacing.

Let’s get into it! 

Best Betting Bonuses and Promotions

Top 5 Australian Betting Bonuses

bonusesAs an Australian punter with years of experience in the scene, I know full well how essential seeking out those appropriate betting bonuses truly is. Drawing from personal experience and a profound knowledge of exactly what Aussie bettors need, I have sifted out the top 5 betting sites with the best bonuses. The ones that remain after continuing to meet a high threshold of value, reliability, and user experience emerge as my top suggestions within this particular niche.

PlayUp

PlayUp

When you’re talking about betting bonuses, PlayUp is one of the top sites in Australia, in my opinion. That’s why most of our Horse Racing tips feature PlayUp odds / promos. They have sports and racing bonuses available, but this section will go into what they have for racing fans.

Firstly, they usually have a bonus back offer for racing on the top days, like Wednesday or Saturday. For example, if you’re horse finishes 2nd or 3rd, you’ll get a bonus bet. So it’s ideal for backing roughies here and there that you think might run a place.

There’s also a Racing cashout feature. It allows you to claim your winnings sooner rather than later. That’s always nice. They also have a special bonus if you’re a racing owner. Simply place a bet on your horse and if it wins, you’ll get extra cash. 

Outside of racing, there are plenty of other betting options at PlayUp. They have sports betting promotions, especially as the sponsor of the Wests Tigers. You can also play Daily Fantasy contests via Draftstars, which is linked with PlayUp. Along with a solid app and massive betting markets, you should have a lot of fun with this site. Ultimately, PlayUp is an excellent betting site in my view. They’re always improving their features on the website and app, so you’ll be getting the best racing experience possible. Check out the Playup Review for more info.

Playup Review
Get Best Fixed Odds

Unibet

Unibet

At Unibet, you have plenty of opportunities for betting sites bonuses that will take your racing betting to another level.

First off, there are daily trifecta boosts. So you can potentially boost your trifecta odds and get more cash. Just keep in mind, that it’s for Thoroughbreds only. Another cool feature is daily racing multi boosts. You can currently get up to 40%, which I think is quite generous. This can be useful to combine with our Wednesday tips every week.

They have a thing called “Reboost”. This basically means that you’ll keep getting boosts until you pick a winner. So can be handy for punting on roughies. Also, there are daily racing extra markets that includes jockey markets, bundle bets, h2h and more. So a lot of unique Australian betting promotions at this site, which is good to see.

Unibet offers dead head payout and protest payout. This is pretty common these days, but it’s always nice to see and getting your winnings straight away is great. While for racing owners, Unibet has an owners payout feature. Overall, I would highly recommend Unibet for racing, there’s a lot going on and I think you’ll enjoy the experience.

Unibet Review
Get Great Selection of Markets and Odds

Betfocus

Betfocus

Betfocus is one of the new betting sites to hit the Australian market and they are showing good signs in the racing space. Let’s talk about what they’re doing well.

Firstly, there are plenty of racing promos every week. This usually includes bet returns, bet boosts and more. Such as, if you run 2nd, you can get a bet return up to a certain amount.

They also have same race multi bets available and they offer promos for this too. Usually, it will be if 1 leg fails, they’ll offer a bet return. I’ve also noticed they can have higher odds for roughies, which is always nice. The app is simple to use and available for Apple / Samsung devices. Along with markets for every race in Australia and overseas, they could be a good option for someone looking for a secondary betting site.

Betfocus Review
Recently Launched Bookie with Great Racing Odds

Picklebet

Picklebet

Picklebet is another good site for Australian betting promotions, in my experience. They have some unique features for racing betting, so let’s discuss them. 

At Picklebet, they give you a 100% deposit match in bonus cash. So when you make a first deposit, they will match it up to a certain amount. So this is a perfect way to get started with this betting site.

Also, some unique features they have for racing include top 4 betting. It’s kind of like exotics tips. It allows you to bet on horses that will finish in the top 4 - similar to a first four. There’s also the popular same race multi bet type. It’s usually available for most Australian race meetings.

Overall, Picklebet offers a fun betting experience in Australia. They also have you covered for sports and offer a unique pick’em feature. It’s also one of the best Esports sites in Australia, which comes with live streaming too. Along with one of the top betting apps, you should check them out today.

Picklebet Review
Top 4 Betting, 10% Winnings Boosts and Great Weekly Promos

Betr

Picklebet

When it comes to betting in Australia, Betr is usually underrated, in my opinion. Firstly, they are an Aussie owned and operated betting company that comes from Sydney. I think they are an exciting option for punters, for their focus on innovation and customer engagement.

The Betr Boost is one of the Betr standout features in that it allows you to upgrade your odds in horse racing, harness racing and greyhound events. You can use this feature on both multi bets, as well as single bets. As if that isn't enough, Betr also offers different exotic bonuses on trifectas, quinellas and first fours. If you like to bet with exotics, there are loads to appreciate.

One interesting fact about Betr is that you can purchase Bet Tokens. With this, punters just have to visit their bet slip to access promotional offers. If you’ve got a promo eligible on your bet, you’ll find a bet token appear and you’ll have the ability to select it from the list. Just remember that there is only one token per event, so be sure to check your slip for these opportunities.

Betr also provides access to racing.com streams for the best races and does well in the area of live streaming. It pairs beautifully with our Saturday horse racing tips, allowing punters like myself to experience all the action live while you watch it on your desktop or with the mobile app.

All in all, Betr has great odds, a decent app, and a host of racing bonus bets that make betting that little bit more enjoyable. If you fancy yourself as looking to become a racing enthusiast then it could be well worth checking the racing bonus bets and tempting online free bets.

Betr Review
Top 4 Betting, 10% Winnings Boosts and Great Weekly Promos

Bonus Types

When it comes to betting bonus offers, there are plenty of types that you’ll find at local Aussie betting sites and International giants like Bet365. There are enhanced / boosted odds, cashback offers and much more. Here are some common bonuses offered by betting sites in Australia.

deposit-match-bonus

Deposit Match Bonus

This is when a betting site will give you a percentage of your deposit with bonus funds, so giving you more to bet with right from the start. For example, if you deposit $50 and the site offers a 50% deposit match, you’ll get an extra $25 in bonus money. This boosts your betting power and increases your chances of winning without requiring a large up-front payment.

multi-bonuses

Bonus Back

Receive bonus offers if your horse finishes behind the leader, like 2nd or 3rd. This is a great way to get a second chance bet even if your bet doesn’t win. For example, if you bet on a horse to win and it finishes second or third, you could get your stake back as a bonus, allowing you to try again without another cost.

free-bets

Free Bets

Betting sites bonuses offers can include free bet credits, which can be used to place bets without risking your own money. This type of promotion is ideal for trying out new betting strategies or markets. For example, you might receive $20 at free bets betting sites after making your first deposit. As a result, this lets you explore different betting options without any financial risk. I'll give more discussion on free bets further down this page, because this type of bet is a very popular bet in Australia.

cashback

Cashback Offers

Cashback offers can give you a percentage of losses over a specified period and are returned as bonus cash. This helps mitigate the impact of a losing streak and encourages continued betting. For example, if you lose $100 in a week and the cashback offer is 10%, you’ll receive $10 back as bonus funds. That should soften the blow and give you another chance to win.

boosted-odds

Enhanced Odds

Better odds on specific events or bets, increasing potential winnings. Enhanced odds promotions can significantly boost your returns if your bet is successful. For instance, if the odds for a runner to win are $2, an enhanced odds offer might boost them to $3, meaning a $10 bet would return $30 instead of $20.

racing-cashout

Racing Cashout

The option to claim winnings early before the event is finished. This feature allows you to secure a certain amount of your potential winnings if you feel the bet might lose. For example, if you put on a 3 leg multi and 2 legs have already won, just take the cash and you don’t have to worry about losing it all.

reload-bonus

Reload Bonus

Bonuses are available for existing customers when they top up their accounts. This type of promotion rewards loyalty and keeps the betting experience exciting. Such as, you might receive a 25% bonus on your next deposit of up to $100.

loyalty-programs

Loyalty Programs

Earn points or rewards for regular betting activity, which can be redeemed for bonuses or prizes. Loyalty programs are designed to reward consistent punters with various rewards, such as online free bets, cash bonuses or unique gifts. The more you bet, the more points you earn, which can be exchanged for valuable rewards.

referral-bonus

Referral Bonus

Bonuses for referring friends to the betting site. When you invite friends to join the site and they sign up and deposit, you receive a bonus as a thank you. For example, you might get a $50 bonus for each friend you refer who meets the deposit bonus requirements, adding extra value to your betting experience.

owners-bonus

Owners Bonus

Get betting bonus offers when you win a bet on a horse that you own. This unique promotion is perfect for horse owners, offering additional rewards for successful bets on their own horses. You might receive an extra 10% on your winnings when you bet on your horse and it wins. Unibet and PlayUp are good sites to take advantage of this.

seasonal-promotions

Seasonal Promotions

Big events like the Melbourne Cup, Group one races or Spring Racing Carnival usually come with some great betting promos that I usually take advantage of. These promotions are designed purely for major racing events and they usually offer enhanced odds, free bets and other bonuses to make the racing experience even more exicting. For example, during the Melbourne Cup, you might find special offers such as double winnings on certain bets or free bets for placing a bet on the big race.

birthday-bonus

Birthday Bonus

Some sites will give you racing bonus bets Australia on your birthday. I think that this special promotion adds a personal touch to your betting experience and shows they care. Celebrating your birthday with free bets or bonus funds. It’s a fun way to enjoy some betting on your special day.

  

Best Horse Racing Promotions

Playup_120x120
Playup Owners Bonus - Get 15% Extra Winnings for being an Owner
Terms and Conditions Apply. Max Stake $200
Bet365_120x120
365 Top Tote +
Bet365_120x120
Odds Drift Protector
Unibet Promotion
10 x $20 Racing Bet & Get
GET 10 MATCHED RACING BETS, UP TO $20 EACH
T+C Existing Customers Only. Excludes SA. 18+ T&C’s and wagering requirements apply
Unibet Promotion
REBOOST
Unlimited reboosts on your racing bets until you collect! Available every day.
Eligible customers only. Terms and Conditions Apply
Unibet Promotion
200+ Bonus Back races every week
Available every day across all codes
Eligible customers only. Terms and Conditions Apply
Unibet Promotion
Bonus Back 2nd
Get Bonus Back 2nd on all races at select meetings on Fridays and Sundays
Eligible customers only. Terms and Conditions Apply
Vicbet Promotion
50% Deposit Match When You Deposit $100

New PalmerBet Spring Carnival Bonuses

BetRight spring bonus

  

How to Get Bonuses

Wondering how to get bonus bets offers? Here is a quick overview of how it usually works. Just keep in mind that some sites are a bit different, so this is just a general guide.

  1. Pick a Betting site: Start by selecting a site, use our list above to get the best bonuses.
  2. Create an Account: Find the bonus bets sign up or register button. Then enter all your relevant personal info such as name, email and username. Click the confirm the button and you should be right to go. Some sites require email or sms verification so look out for that.
  3. Deposit Money: Your account should be created now. Now simply choose a deposit payment method and enter a deposit amount. Sometimes there is a no deposit bonus.
  4. Find Promos: Generally, you can find the promos in the Promotions tab. It can also be found near the betting odds on a single race, it just depends on the site.
  5. Follow the Instructions: Some bonuses will have instructions that you need to follow. Read through them and make sure your bets qualify.
  6. Place a Bet: Now for the fun stuff - placing a bet. Put your bet into the bet-slip and add a stake.  

Free Bets

Wondering how to get free bets? It’s tougher than before in Australia due to strict Government laws that bookies must adhere to. Previously, betting sites could offer massive free bet offers, otherwise known as sign up bonuses. So these were crucial marketing campaigns for bookies. But in the last few years, the Australian government has cracked down on this tactic. As a result, bookies can only advertise free betting promos and offers to existing customers. You’ll usually find these on a promotions page or my account when you’re logged in.

Let us explain how it works now:

Types of Free Bets

no-deposit

No Deposit Free Bets: Simply sign up at a betting site, place some money into your account and the site will give you some free bets to enjoy.

deposit-match-bonusMatched Bets: This type of free bet usually means that the bookie will match your initial deposit up to a certain amount. For example, let’s say that you deposit $100, if the promo is a 100% deposit match, you’ll get an extra $100 to play with. Just check the terms and conditions at the site as they’re all different.

bet-creditsFree Bet Credits: There are some bookies out there that offer free bet credits. This is generally used in promos, offers or reward programs. You can use these free bet credits but there could be restrictions, it just depends on the site.

How to Get Free Bets

free-betsLooking to get free bets? Here is how it basically works. Firstly, you need to find a good betting site, check out recommended sites and reviews to get a good idea. Then, you’ll need to create an account, it’s usually a quick and easy process. Now, head to the promotions page and you should see the free bet offers. Just follow the instructions and you’ll be enjoying free bets in no time.

FAQ’s

Here are some FAQs that you should know about with betting site bonuses.

What is a sign-up bonus?

A sign up bonus is a promotional offer given to new customers when they register and make their first deposit on a betting site. It often comes in the form of bonus funds or free bets. In Australia, sign up bonuses aren’t really common anymore as Government law has cracked down on sites that were offering huge bonuses. 

How do I claim a deposit match bonus?

To claim a deposit match bonus, you typically need to make a deposit after signing up. The betting site will then match a percentage of your deposit with bonus funds, which you can use to place bets.

What is a Bonus Back offer?

If your runner finishes 2nd or 3rd, some sites can offer a bonus back if that happens. So this can be useful if you’re backing underdogs.

What is cashback?

A cashback will offer a certain percentage of your losses as a horse racing bonus. This can help your profit if you’re having a bad run.

Can I cash out my winnings early?

Yes, many betting sites offer a cashout feature that allows you to claim your winnings before the event has finished. 

What are enhanced odds?

Enhanced odds are special promotions that offer higher odds on selected races or meetings. So this can increase your potential winnings if your bet is successful.

How does the Owners Bonus work?

The Owners Bonus is a special offer for horse owners. If you place a bet on your own horse and it wins, you'll receive extra cash on top of your regular win.

Are there bonuses for existing customers?

Yes, in fact, sports betting promotions can only be promoted to customers with an account in Australia.