ACMA Expands Crackdown on Illegal Online Gambling
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has intensified its efforts against illegal online gambling, ordering the blocking of eight more unlicensed websites that were found to be in violation of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.
Key Highlights:
ACMA has blocked JokaRoom, AUDPokies888, Aura Play, Instant Casino, Leon, Rich Papa, UUSpin, and Wild Pokies.
Over 220 illegal gambling operators have exited the Australian market since enforcement began in 2017.
ACMA continues to caution consumers about the dangers of unlicensed gambling platforms.
Ongoing Consumer Protection Efforts
Since the introduction of website blocking measures in November 2019, ACMA has successfully restricted access to 1,154 illegal gambling and affiliate marketing websites. This initiative aims to safeguard Australian players from unregulated operators who fail to provide essential consumer protections, including responsible gambling measures and financial security for users.
ACMA urges players to verify the legitimacy of online gambling platforms through its official register of licensed operators. The agency warns that even seemingly professional websites may operate without proper oversight, putting users' funds and personal information at risk.
Recent Developments in Gambling Regulation
This latest enforcement action follows formal warnings issued in January 2025 to offshore operators Dama N.V. and Luster N.V. for providing unlicensed gambling services to Australian players. Additionally, Western Australia has recently introduced stricter gambling laws, increasing financial penalties and enforcement powers to further regulate the industry.
As ACMA continues to crack down on unauthorized operators, Australian players are encouraged to stay informed and gamble only on licensed platforms to ensure a safe and secure betting experience.
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Hellworkers So much for "consumer care". As soon as they are strangled with taxes, everyone will really go to left-wing offices.
Good move, but it won’t stop people from finding ways around it. VPNs and mirror sites pop up almost instantly. The government should focus on regulating better options instead of just banning everything.
Honestly, if a site is illegal, then banks shouldn’t even allow deposits in the first place. Blocking them after people have already lost money seems like a reactive approach rather than a proactive one.
I get that ACMA is trying to protect players, but sometimes these sites offer way better bonuses and games than the legal ones. Maybe if licensed casinos were more competitive, people wouldn’t need to go offshore!
It’s about time ACMA took stronger action against these unlicensed casinos. I’ve heard so many horror stories about people losing their money with no way to get it back. Hopefully, this keeps more Aussies safe from scams!