Home
News

NextBet to launch in March 2026 after PlayUp acquisition

Bets.com.au Staff

Editor

Last updated: Mon 02 Mar 2026 11:06

Bets.com.au Staff 02 Mar 2026

Share this article

NextBet will launch on March 1 after acquiring PlayUp and CrossBet
Fantasy site Draftstars will also migrate to the new NextBet platform
New customers wanting to sign up with NextBet can use the code BETS

NextBet have made some eye-catching moves as the new Australian online bookmaker prepare for a March 2026 launch.

After acquiring Brisbane-based bookmaker CrossBet in the final quarter of 2025, NextBet have now absorbed PlayUp as part of their ambitious plan to challenge the top tier bookies in Australia.

*New customers wanting to sign up can use the exclusive NextBet code BETS when registering to secure access to all existing offer and promos.

NextBet have declared they will provide punters with a 'faster, easier and more rewarding betting experience' when they officially launch on March 1.

Striving to establish a leading next-generation betting platform, NextBet have announced that:

NextBet will become the primary brand and platform moving forward after PlayUp & CrossBet acquisitions
Draftstars will continue to operate as part of the NextBet platform
The PlayUp brand will continue to operate in the short-term
The CrossBet brand will be discontinued

NextBet, PlayUp and Draftstars will operate on a single, unified wagering platform under the new takeover.

PlayUp customers received the following email on Sunday February 15, alerting them to the imminent change.

NextBet Pty Ltd has acquired PlayUp. As part of the transition, your PlayUp account will automatically transfer to NextBet, along with your existing cash and bonus balances as well as any pending bets.

Once complete, Your PlayUp app will update to NextBet. You’ll also be able to access your account at www.nextbet.com.au.Your account will be transferred on March 1st 2026, starting early that morning and is expected to take several hours.

During this time access to PlayUp and Draftstars will be unavailable and you will not be able to complete any transactions (e.g. place bets, enter Daily Fantasy Sports contests, make deposits or withdrawals).Once the transfer is complete, your NextBet account will be ready to use. Simply log in using your existing PlayUp username and password.

The following details will transfer over from existing PlayUp customers' accounts: