Key points:
- ACMA has blocked more illegal gambling websites, bringing the total to 1,178 sites blocked since November 2019
- Approximately 220 illegal gambling services have exited the Australian market since enhanced enforcement began in 2017
- ACMA warns consumers that unlicensed gambling platforms lack essential player protections, posing financial risks
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has taken further action against illegal online gambling operators by requesting Australian internet service providers (ISPs) to block additional websites.
The latest enforcement measure follows investigations confirming that these sites were operating in breach of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.
The newly blocked websites include Crown Slots and Billy Billion.
Website blocking is one of several strategies ACMA employs to try and protect Australian consumers from unlicensed gambling services.
Since the first blocking request in November 2019, a total of 1,178 illegal gambling and affiliate websites have been restricted from access in Australia.
Beyond blocking websites, ACMA’s enforcement efforts have contributed to approximately 220 illegal gambling operators withdrawing from the Australian market since stricter regulations came into effect in 2017
The authority continues to remind consumers that even if an online gambling service appears legitimate, unlicensed platforms do not offer key player protections. This means that individuals using illegal services may risk losing funds with little to no recourse.
Good to know: Last month ACMA blocked eight additional gambling websites including JokaRoom, AUDPokies888 and Wild Pokies
ACMA provides a public register of licensed wagering services, where users can verify whether an operator is authorised to provide gambling services in Australia.
Additionally, the ACMA website offers resources on identifying illegal gambling platforms and submitting complaints against suspected unlicensed operators.
This latest enforcement follows other recent actions by ACMA, including an investigation into Network Ten (Sydney) for broadcasting gambling advertisements during the 2024 Australia Formula 1 Grand Prix in violation of the Australian Commercial TV Code of Practice.
