A plain-English guide to the federal framework, illegal online casino services, licensed wagering and the role of Australian regulators.
Online access does not mean a service is legal
The Interactive Gambling Act 2001 is the main federal law governing online gambling services offered to people in Australia. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) says prohibited or illegal online services include online casinos, online slots or pokies, casino-style games such as poker, blackjack and roulette, certain in-play betting, and betting or lottery services that are not licensed in Australia.
Official overview: About the Interactive Gambling Act — ACMA
Federal, state and territory responsibilities
Federal law and ACMA
The federal Act regulates interactive gambling and advertising. ACMA investigates complaints, monitors compliance and can take enforcement or disruption action against illegal services.
States and territories
State and territory authorities regulate many land-based gambling activities and issue licences for permitted wagering and other products within their jurisdiction. Rules and complaint routes can differ by location.
Australian-licensed wagering
Online and telephone wagering services such as sports and racing betting may operate when appropriately licensed in an Australian state or territory and when they comply with federal requirements.
Online casino services
ACMA identifies online casinos and online slot-machine services offered to people in Australia as prohibited interactive gambling services. Being able to open a site does not make it compliant.
Common online products and their status
| Online service | General position | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Online casino games and pokies | Prohibited services when offered to people in Australia | ACMA warnings and blocked-site information |
| Sports and racing wagering | May be offered by an Australian-licensed wagering provider | ACMA’s register of licensed providers |
| In-play online sports betting | Restricted/prohibited in the circumstances covered by the Act | Current ACMA guidance |
| Lotteries | Rules differ by product and licence | Australian licence and local regulator |
Consumer warning: Protect yourself from illegal gambling operators — ACMA
Licensed wagering protections are not casino protections
BetStop
BetStop can exclude a person from all online and phone wagering providers licensed in Australia for a selected period from three months to a lifetime. It does not apply to illegal online casino services.
Credit and digital-currency ban
Since 11 June 2024, Australian online and telephone wagering operators have not been allowed to accept credit cards, credit-linked wallets or digital currency for betting. The ACMA notes that the rule does not apply to every gambling product, including lotteries.
Website blocking
ACMA can ask Australian internet service providers to block sites involved in serious breaches, including prohibited casino services and unlicensed wagering offered to Australian customers.
Dispute risks
ACMA warns that Australian regulators may be unable to help recover money or resolve unfair treatment involving an illegal provider. A site may also be blocked while funds remain in an account.
What readers can do
- Check ACMA’s register before using an online wagering service.
- Do not assume an Australian-looking name, .com address or AUD cashier means Australian licensing.
- Keep transaction records and written support correspondence.
- Report suspected illegal online gambling services to ACMA.
- Seek independent legal advice for a dispute or significant loss.
Laws and regulator guidance can change
This page is a general summary, not legal advice. Check the current Act, ACMA guidance and the relevant state or territory regulator before relying on a legal conclusion.