Australia: ACMA orders blocking of more illegal gambling sites
Four additional services found in breach of Interactive Gambling Act.
Key points:
– ACMA directs internet service providers to block four more illegal gambling websites; high-profile predictions site Polymarket among offending sites
– 1,296 illegal sites and affiliates blocked since 2019
– Around 220 unlicensed services have exited the Australian market since 2017
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has instructed internet service providers to block access to four more online gambling sites found to be operating illegally. The latest services to be restricted are Slot Mafia, Top Aussie Pokies, Polymarket and Spinanga.
Investigations confirmed the platforms were offering gambling products in breach of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. The ACMA said blocking access is one of several enforcement measures used to protect Australians from unlicensed operators.
Since the introduction of new enforcement rules in 2017, approximately 220 illegal services have voluntarily withdrawn from the Australian market. Despite this progress, the ACMA has warned that many illegal platforms still appear legitimate, yet lack critical safeguards such as secure handling of customer funds and access to dispute resolution.
The regulator urged consumers to check its official register to confirm whether a wagering service is licensed in Australia before using it. The ACMA’s website also offers resources on recognising and avoiding illegal gambling operators, as well as a complaints process for reporting suspicious sites.
Good to know: Website blocking began in November 2019, and more than 1,200 illegal gambling and affiliate sites have been taken offline since then
Authorities have reiterated that using unlicensed gambling platforms exposes players to significant risks, including the possibility of losing deposited funds with little to no recourse.
The latest round of blocks is part of an ongoing strategy to limit harm and disrupt the operations of offshore gambling providers targeting Australian customers.
Gambling Insider delivers the latest industry news, in-depth features, and operator reviews that you can trust. Our team combines rigorous editorial standards with decades of specialized expertise to ensure accuracy and fairness. We are committed to delivering clear, impartial, and dependable coverage across the global gambling sector.
