Popular bookmaker Sportsbet has been ordered to pay a $2.5 million fine after breaching Australian spam laws.

Media watchdog the Australian Communications and Media Authority discovered that the company had been sending unwanted texts and emails to customers who have previously tried to unsubscribe.

It’s reported that over 150,000 texts and emails were sent and 3000 marketing texts did not have the ‘unsubscribe’ option.

Sportsbet has also committed to repaying customers $1.2 million for their breach.

Thomson Geer Lawyers’ expert on privacy and spam Marlia Saunders has told Deborah Knight, “It’s the biggest penalty imposed to date”.

“Business should really be looking at their marketing practices and terms and conditions.

“They need to be more upfront.

“There is going to be a big backlash from consumers over this.”

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Image: Getty