Racing and Wagering Commission chair Alastair Shields and his fellow commissioners have voluntarily ceased accepting personal gifts and closed betting accounts with the $50 billion online gambling industry they regulate, following public scrutiny. However, Shields and some commissioners continue to own racehorses, justified by oversight from the Thoroughbred Racing NT and the Racing Appeals Tribunal, the latter of which Shields is deputy chair. This dual role raises fresh concerns about conflicts of interest, especially since the tribunal hears complaints related to horse racing decisions overseen by bodies reporting to the commission.

The commission faces criticism for a “cosy” relationship with the gambling industry, weak regulation, lack of transparency, and minimal enforcement despite significant industry breaches. The NT government has resisted calls for independent reviews or reforms, with Racing Minister Marie-Clare Boothby defending the commission’s performance and halting promised legislative reviews. Despite $42.4 billion spent on betting in 2024-25, the commission imposed only $300,000 in fines, highlighting ongoing concerns about its effectiveness and governance.