Head-to-Head (Moneyline)
The simplest wager format: pick which team or athlete wins the event. In sports with draws (such as football), a draw may be offered as a third option. Returns depend on the odds at the time of placement — no outcome is guaranteed.
Head-to-head markets are ideal for beginners because they involve a single selection and straightforward settlement. However, favourites often carry shorter odds, meaning lower potential returns relative to stake.
Line and Handicap Betting
When teams are mismatched, bookmakers apply a points handicap to level the market. A favourite might start at -7.5, meaning they must win by eight or more points for the bet to succeed. Underdogs receive a positive line and can cover even if they lose narrowly.
Handicap lines move based on betting activity and team news. Always check the line at placement, as shifts can affect your position significantly.
Example
Collingwood -12.5 vs Carlton +12.5 — Carlton covers if they lose by 12 or fewer, or win outright.
Over / Under Totals
Totals markets focus on combined scores rather than winners. You wager whether the total points, goals or runs will exceed or fall below a set number. Half-point lines (e.g. 45.5) eliminate pushes in most cases.
Weather, pace of play and defensive strategies all influence totals, but past trends do not predict future results with certainty.
Multi and Accumulator Bets
Multis combine two or more selections into one wager. All legs must win for a return — one failure means the entire bet loses. Potential payouts multiply with each added leg, but so does risk.
Same Game Multis allow multiple selections from a single match, while traditional multis span different events. Treat multis as higher-variance entertainment, not a reliable strategy.
Prop and Exotic Markets
Proposition bets cover specific occurrences: first goal scorer, total rebounds, or number of aces served. Futures markets let you wager on season-long outcomes like premiership winners months in advance.
Exotic markets often carry wider margins and less predictable outcomes. Limit stakes on props outside your area of knowledge.
Live (In-Play) Betting
In-play wagering lets you place bets while an event is underway. Odds update continuously based on match events. Live betting requires quick decisions and strict budget discipline — the fast pace can encourage impulsive staking.
Set pre-defined limits before entering live markets. Cash Out features may be available but offers fluctuate and are never guaranteed until confirmed.