Point Spread Betting Guide: How to Bet & How It Works

What Is Point Spread Betting?

If you’re new to sports betting in Australia, point spread betting is a great place to start. Also known as “line betting” or “the spread,” this method is designed to even the playing field between two unevenly matched teams.

Rather than simply betting on who will win, you’re betting on how much a team will win or lose by. This adds more excitement, even in one-sided matches. It’s especially popular in AFL, NRL, NBA, and NFL betting markets.

This guide will walk you through how point spread betting works, how to read the odds, and key terms like “Dead Heat” that every punter should know.

How Does Point Spread Betting Work?

A sportsbook will assign a “spread” representing the expected margin of victory. You can bet on the favourite to win by more than that spread, on the underdog to lose by less than the spread, or win outright.

Example:

If the Swans win by exactly 6, the Brisbane bet wins. If they win by 7, the Sydney bet wins. If it’s 6.5, there’s no exact margin, so no “push.”

How to Read Spread Betting Odds

Spread bets are often accompanied by odds like -110 or +105, known as the “juice” or “vigorish.” In Australia, these translate to decimal odds — here’s a simple guide:

• -110 American = 1.91 Decimal
• -120 American = 1.83 Decimal
• +105 American = 2.05 Decimal

For example:

• You bet AUD 100 at 1.91 odds → You get AUD 191 total payout (AUD 91 profit)

Key Concepts to Understand

1. Favourites vs. Underdogs

• Favourites are marked with a minus (-): Must win by more than the spread.
• Underdogs have a plus (+): Can lose by less than the spread or win outright.

2. Push

• If the margin of victory equals the spread, the bet is void. You get your stake back.

3. Pick ‘Em (PK)

• No spread at all; you’re just picking the winner.

4. Dead Heat Rule (Focus Keyword)

• Your payout is split if two outcomes tie for a winning spot (common in horse racing or goal scorer bets., For example, if two players tie for top goal scorer and you bet AUD 100 at 4.0 odds, your return could be halved to AUD 200 instead of AUD 400

Learn more about betting basics at BookiesPedia’s Bet 101 guide.

How Point Spreads Are Set

Bookmakers assess:

• Team strength and recent performance
• Injuries and suspensions
• Weather and home-field advantage
• Public betting trends

They also adjust spreads to balance action on both sides.

Key Numbers by Sport (Australia-Friendly Focus)

Alternative Spread Betting

Alt spreads let you change the point spread for bigger or smaller payouts.

Example:

• Line: Melbourne Demons -4.5 @ 1.91
• Alt Line: Melbourne Demons -9.5 @ 3.20

If you think they’ll win big, take the alternate line for a higher reward, but the risk increases.

Compare with the moneyline (just who wins), and always check for better value.

Tips for Point Spread Betting in Australia

1. Shop Around: Use multiple bookmakers to find the best spreads and juice.
2. Watch for Dead Heats: Especially in markets like goal scorers or racing.
3. Consider Key Numbers: Margins like 3 or 6 can heavily affect your outcome.
4. Check Injury Reports: Missing stars can move spreads significantly.
5. Don’t Chase Losses: Stick to a budget and avoid impulsive bets.

FAQs: Point Spread Betting in Australia