Overview
Australia's leading DFS platform; largest prize pools (e.g., $1M AFL contests); Australian-owned; official partner of AFL, NRL; variety of contest types (classic, H2H, rapidfire); accepts AU/NZ residents only; easy interface, CSV data exports.
Draftstars Australia was established in 2016 (launched as joint venture; acquired by PlayUp in 2018) and is operated by PlayUp Interactive Pty Ltd (wholly owned subsidiary of PlayUp Digital Pty Ltd). The operator holds a licence from Licensed as a sports bookmaker in the Northern Territory by the Northern Territory Racing Commission.
We tested Draftstars Australia by creating an account, depositing funds, placing bets across their available markets, and requesting a withdrawal. This review reflects what we found during that process.
| Year Established | 2016 (launched as joint venture; acquired by PlayUp in 2018) |
| Launched | Oct 2016 |
| Parent Company | PlayUp Interactive Pty Ltd (wholly owned subsidiary of PlayUp Digital Pty Ltd) |
| Licence | Licensed as a sports bookmaker in the Northern Territory by the Northern Territory Racing Commission |
| Overall Rating | 8.8/10 |
Platform Screenshots
We captured these screenshots during our testing of Draftstars Australia on desktop and mobile devices.
Desktop
Mobile
Our Rating
We scored Draftstars Australia across seven categories using our weighted methodology. Here is how the scores break down.
Sports and Racing Markets
Sports: AFL, NRL, NBA, NFL, NHL, EPL, MLB, soccer, golf, cricket. Racing: Horse racing (fantasy contests).
For Australian punters, the most relevant markets are thoroughbred racing, greyhounds, AFL, NRL, and cricket. Draftstars Australia covers all of these extensively.
Key Features
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) contests (classic lineups under salary cap, head-to-head, tipping with twist, horse racing no salary cap); live data tracking; entry fees $2-$50, large prize pools up to $1M; no traditional same game multi, live betting, cash out, or bet builder.
Same Game Multis and Same Race Multis are available, which is consistent with what most Australian punters expect from a modern bookmaker.
Mobile App and Platform
Yes, Android and iPhone apps available; responsive mobile site.
The app performed well during our testing, with fast load times and a clean interface. Navigation between racing and sports sections was straightforward.
Deposits and Withdrawals
Draftstars Australia accepts the following deposit methods: Debit card, POLi (instant); Min $5..
For withdrawals: Bank transfer (processed quickly); no fees; deposits must be turned over once before withdrawal; first requires bank statement upload..
The minimum deposit is $5 and the minimum bet is $2 (smallest contest entry). These are in line with industry standards for Australian bookmakers.
| Method | Min Deposit | Processing |
|---|---|---|
| Visa/Mastercard | $5-$10 | Instant |
| PayID | $5-$10 | Instant |
| POLi | $10 | Instant |
| Bank Transfer | $10-$20 | 1-3 days |
| PayPal | $10 | Instant |
Customer Support
Online form/email; response within 4 hours during business hours (Mon-Sun 6am-12am AEST).
Support hours are adequate for most users, though we would prefer to see 24/7 availability given the nature of live betting and racing schedules.
Responsible Gambling Tools
Deposit limits, self-exclusion, BetStop
All Australian-licensed operators are required to provide deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and integration with the BetStop National Self-Exclusion Register. Draftstars Australia meets these requirements.
Think. Is this a bet you really want to place? For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au. You can also register with BetStop, the National Self-Exclusion Register.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Licensed and regulated Australian bookmaker
- Dedicated mobile app available for iOS and Android
- Same Game Multi and Same Race Multi available
- Live betting and streaming features
- Cash out available on eligible bets
Cons
- Email-only support (no live chat)
- Promotional offers limited by Australian regulations
Verdict
Draftstars Australia scores 8.8/10 in our testing. Positive as #1 DFS site in Australia with 300k+ users; good reviews for interface, prizes; quick withdrawals; 4-star on Trustpilot.
Draftstars Australia is a serviceable option for Australian punters, though there are stronger alternatives in our rankings. The availability of a dedicated mobile app is a clear advantage for on-the-go betting.
We noted the following concerns during testing: Email-only support (no live chat); limited payment options; inferred ~15% rake; account inactivity fees after 2 years; 2024 $586k fine for ad policy breach; verification required within 45 days..
18+ only. Gamble responsibly. When the fun stops, stop. Gamble responsibly. Call 1800 858 858 for support.