The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has taken further steps to combat illegal online gambling, issuing orders for internet service providers (ISPs) to block access to two more offshore websites. Lucky Block, a cryptocurrency casino and sportsbook, and Rooli, an online casino, were both found to be operating in breach of Australia’s Interactive Gambling Act 2001. As a result, these websites are now inaccessible to Australian users.
The Interactive Gambling Act 2001 dictates that online gambling in Australia is only allowed when operators hold the appropriate license. The law restricts legal gambling to certain activities, including sports betting, horse racing, and lotteries, while prohibiting online gaming, such as slots and table games. Since Lucky Block and Rooli offered unlicensed online casino games, ACMA moved to block them, adding them to a growing list of illegal platforms targeted by the authority.
Expanding Efforts Against Illegal Gambling
These latest blocks are part of ACMA’s ongoing initiative to safeguard Australian consumers from unlicensed offshore gambling operators. Since its first blocking request in November 2019, the authority has successfully blocked 1,059 illegal gambling and affiliate websites. Additionally, over 220 offshore gambling operators have voluntarily withdrawn from the Australian market since 2017, when stricter regulations were implemented.
“Website blocking is one of a range of enforcement options to protect Australians against illegal online gambling,” ACMA stated. These enforcement measures aim to prevent illegal operators from offering services without the consumer protections that licensed platforms are required to have in place. Without these safeguards, Australians using these sites risk financial loss with no legal recourse.
The authority continues to remind consumers that they should only engage with licensed gambling services. A register of licensed services is available on the ACMA’s official website, allowing users to verify the legitimacy of a platform before placing bets.
Gambling Advertising Regulations Under Review
While ACMA’s enforcement efforts focus primarily on illegal gambling websites, the conversation around gambling regulation in Australia extends beyond the online gaming space. The Australian government has been considering new restrictions on gambling advertising, especially in relation to televised sports.
The debate began in June 2023, with the publication of the Murphy Report, which outlined 31 recommendations for reforming the country’s gambling industry. One of the most controversial suggestions was the complete banning of gambling advertisements on both television and radio. While Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has stated that no final decisions have been made, he acknowledged that action needs to be taken to address the link between gambling and sport.
Albanese has expressed that although a full advertising ban may not be the solution, the connection between gambling and live sports events must be weakened. His stance was echoed by a recent bill submitted by the Green party, calling for an outright ban on gambling advertisements. However, the bill is still in its early stages and will require multiple readings and senate discussions before any decisions are finalized.
ACMA’s Role in Consumer Protection
As part of its broader efforts to regulate gambling in Australia, ACMA also monitors compliance with advertising standards. Earlier this year, the authority found sports streaming service Kayo in violation of gambling ad regulations, after it aired 16 gambling ads outside permitted hours during live sporting events. Kayo was subsequently investigated, further reinforcing ACMA’s commitment to ensuring that gambling advertising remains within legal boundaries.
Moving forward, ACMA’s enforcement actions, whether through blocking illegal websites or ensuring compliance with advertising laws, will continue to play a crucial role in protecting Australian consumers from the risks associated with unlicensed and unregulated gambling.
Source:
“ACMA Blocks More Illegal Offshore Gambling Websites“, acma.gov.au, October 17, 2024.