The Australian Government’s Approach to Combatting Illegal Internet Gambling

The Australian government is stepping up its efforts to combat the threat posed by illicit and offshore gambling operations as internet gambling continues to expand throughout the world.  These unregulated sites operate outside of Australian law and pose significant hazards, such as money laundering, compulsive gambling, and fraud.  The government is retaliating with new instruments, more enforcement, and public awareness campaigns, spearheaded by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA).

Preventing Access to Websites That Engage in Illegal Gambling

Website blocking has proven to be one of the government’s most successful strategies in the battle against illicit internet gambling.  ACMA has ordered Australian internet service providers (ISPs) to ban access to over 1,200 unlawful gambling websites since November 2019.  These websites, operating without the required license, offer Australian consumers casino games, slot machines, and sports betting services.

Websites, including Spirit Casino, AUWin, and Billy Billion, have been added to the restricted list after it was discovered that they were targeting Australian customers without adhering to the nation’s regulatory requirements.

Increasing the Power of Law Enforcement

The main piece of legislation controlling internet gambling in Australia is the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.  The Act has undergone revisions throughout time to meet changing concerns, most notably in 2017 and 2024.  The legislation grants the ACMA the power to investigate and take action against offenders and prohibits unlicensed gaming firms from promoting or providing services to Australians.

Crucially, affiliate marketers and influencers who support unlawful gaming enterprises are also targeted by these regulations.  Influencers risk fines of up to A$59,400 if they neglect to take down sponsored material from illegal betting websites.

Improving Protections for Consumers

Through enhanced identification verification, self-exclusion mechanisms, and advertising limits, the Government is also attempting to safeguard consumers from harm:

• To curb fraudulent and underage gaming, identification checks were made required for all online betting accounts in 2024.
• Launched in 2023, the BetStop program is a nationwide self-exclusion registry that enables Australians to ban themselves from all licensed gambling businesses. Over 30,000 people, many of whom were under 40, had enrolled by mid-2025.
• To stop gambling advertisements during live sports and kid-friendly watching hours, advertising regulations are also being reinforced.
• These initiatives demonstrate a shift toward preventative management rather than only reacting to harm after it has occurred.

 Gazing Ahead

Given the rapid development of technology, it is anticipated that the Australian government will continue to revise its gambling laws to stay ahead of illicit behavior.  More public awareness campaigns about the risks of unauthorized internet betting, harsher punishments, and expanded ISP blocking capabilities are a few examples of what this can include.

Conclusion

Australian communities and consumers are seriously at risk from illegal internet gaming.  However, the government is actively creating a safer and more responsible gambling environment through concerted measures that include education, enforcement, website blocking, and law reform.  The message is obvious: you are not permitted to operate in Australia’s digital gaming market without a license.