Australia has decisively addressed the issue of unauthorized offshore gambling operators targeting its residents with online casino and sports betting products without the required licensing.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) recently released an update, announcing the addition of eight new online casino providers to its blacklist. These operators were found to be in violation of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001, which effectively bans online casinos in Australia. The newly blocked casinos are:
- Jogi Casino
- Dundee Slots
- Lucky Hunter
- Lucky Wins
- Lukki Casino
- Spin Fever
- Clubhouse Casino
- Winport Casino
ACMA identified these operators as illegal entities offering games of chance to Australian residents despite the country’s prohibition on online casinos. Over the past years, ACMA has been actively working to reduce the availability of such websites.
The first wave of bans was implemented through Internet Service Providers in November 2019. Since then, the number of illegal gambling sites on the regulator’s blacklist has grown to 975. Additionally, approximately 220 illegal brands have exited the Australian market under the threat of regulatory action from ACMA, which has warned well-known international brands to comply or face further consequences.
In the latest enforcement action, ACMA noted that the eight newly banned websites were providing gambling services to Australian customers, including online sports betting and slot machines, without valid Australian licenses. These operators also promoted their products to Australians, attempting to attract more players.
This recent ban follows two previous actions in April and March, during which 15 and 8 websites were banned, respectively. Australia remains vigilant against overseas bookmakers and casinos attempting to operate without proper licensing.
ACMA and the Australian government are collaborating with regulators in Belgium, the United Kingdom, and Curacao to ensure that companies licensed in these jurisdictions are not illegally offering their products in Australia.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to limit unauthorized brands. As this campaign continues, Australia relies on ACMA to expand its growing blacklist and maintain stringent control over the gambling industry.
