Gambling Laws and Regulations Report 2026 Australia

Under the AML/CTF Act, certain gambling activities are classified as ‘designated services’ and, as such, reporting entities are required, among other things, to register with AUSTRAC, develop and maintain a compliant AML/CTF Program and report certain transactions to AUSTRAC, including by way of TTRs and SMRs. 2.8 How do any AML, financial services regulations or payment restrictions restrict or impact on entities supplying gambling? Included in this are restrictions at a state and territory level in relation to gambling advertising and also inducements to open an account and, in some jurisdictions, to gamble or to gamble more frequently. This is a departure from the previous ‘point of supply’ regime, under which states and territories derived no betting tax revenue from Corporate Bookmakers and other licensed betting operators taking bets online in the relevant jurisdiction. In addition, that licensee currently pays the state a tax of 21.25% of its gross gaming revenue from table games and 31.57% of its gross gaming revenue from gaming machines in respect of regular players, together with a 1% community benefit levy. State and territory taxation on casinos is determined on a case-by-case basis (typically during negotiations with the relevant state or territory government at the time). Separately, the CCA imposes penalties for, amongst other things, misleading and deceptive conduct (including through advertising).
The regulator responsible for enforcing the Interactive Gambling Act, the ACMA, has consumer protection responsibilities and powers relating to the enforcement of prohibitions on providing or advertising illegal interactive gambling services. The Interactive Gambling Act provides that it is unlawful for overseas-based operators not holding a relevant state or territory licence to advertise or provide online gambling services to Australian residents. Only local operators holding relevant licences may offer gambling products to Australian residents. In addition, a number of Corporate Bookmakers have recently been required by AUSTRAC to appoint independent auditors to assess their AML/CTF compliance, with one subsequently entering into an enforceable undertaking with AUSTRAC. Failure to comply with the AML/CTF Act, including by not maintaining a compliant AML/CTF Program, and not filing TTRs and/or SMRs (or filing them late), can result in large civil penalties and possible criminal exposure.
There have been talks about allowing online casinos to operate locally, but no solid plan has been formed. The Interactive Gambling Act of 2001 aims to prevent online casinos from operating within the country, and does not regulate the actions of Australian players. Yes, playing and winning real money at online casinos is not illegal. The main idea is that the government could earn more taxes if they legalise pokies. Some argue that the reluctance to do so has driven Australian residents to use overseas sites, posing risks as some are not regulated. Every online casino claiming a Curaçao license has to place one of these master licensing bodies on their website’s footer, along with the license number. This gives it the freedom to set tax regulations that benefit casinos.
This guide explains how to check each factor and what warning signs indicate problematic operators. Spinning through thousands of online pokies, tearing apart bonus terms and calling out shady offshore sites before they even think about running off with players’ cash. Check the casino’s footer for licensing details and auditor seals to confirm legitimacy. Selecting a trustworthy online casino is critical for a safe and enjoyable experience. Responsible gambling tools, like BetStop’s self-exclusion or Gambling Help Online’s 24/7 support, keep play safe. Our curated reviews highlight casinos with AUD transactions, SSL encryption, and audited games, offering bonuses up to AU$10000 plus 300 free spins.
For example, in new safe online casinos Australia South Wales or Queensland, pokies can be found in pubs or casinos, whereas in Western Australia, pokies are only allowed in the Crown Perth Casino. Since each state or territory manages its own laws, players need to be aware this may impact what types of gambling are available, how they are accessed, and what protections are offered. The act aims to shield customers from addiction, financial strain, and social repercussions caused by irresponsible gambling. Australia has a range of safeguards designed to minimize the risk of addiction and potential harm for those who wish to participate in online gambling. The ACMA collaborates with international regulators on this and can block or blacklist sites that are in breach of the IGA’s rules. It monitors gambling services, investigates complaints, and enforces compliance when necessary. States regulate and license all land-based gambling such as lotteries, pokies, and casinos.
Each area is subject to the broader regulations under the IGA—which plays a crucial role in licensing and regulating operators—but each jurisdiction operates independently. By enforcing the rules, blocking illegal operators, and protecting player rights, it ensures that the thrill of online casinos stays within a secure and legal environment. It must also ensure player protection by providing clear information on how games work (including odds and payouts), secure transactions, and age verification measures. Players in South Australia are free to enjoy many gambling activities including pokies and table games at the world-class SkyCity Adelaide Casino and online casinos. This legislation prohibits unlicensed online casinos from offering real-money gambling to Australians, and the ACMA has the power to block such sites, ensuring a safer digital environment for AU players. This authority not only sets the rules but also ensures that operators who wish to serve Australian customers meet the highest standards of compliance.
Australia’s gambling scene is tricky, as each state and territory has its own control over gambling rules. Rob reviews new slots, tests casino sites, and ensures our content is accurate, transparent, and genuinely helpful. How to use Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies safely at Australian-friendly casino sites. How pokies work in Australia, the best games, legal tips, and where to play online. How to deposit, withdraw, and avoid hidden fees at Aussie online casinos in 2026. Even crypto-friendly or ‘low KYC’ casinos may request ID for large withdrawals or security checks. Australian authorities do not license online casinos for local players.
The federal government has enacted ‘rules’ that restrict gambling advertising and odds promotion during broadcasts of live sport, with one key objective being to limit its exposure to children. Hotels and clubs are permitted to provide approved gaming machines in the licensed premises. On-course Bookmakers offer substantially the same fixed-odds betting on-course and, subject to approval, also over the telephone and in some instances online. Casino licences provide that casinos are only permitted to offer casino games and gaming machines to patrons present within the casino. In October 2024, the NICC advised that The Star Sydney’s licence would remain suspended until at least March 2025 (with independent supervision also to continue until at least that time) citing that a decision to revoke the licence would have serious economic impacts on staff and connected businesses and stakeholders. The authors also note that the NICC issued The Star Sydney with a show cause notice in September 2024 after a report found that it was not fit to hold a licence.
Under the IGA, each state or territory is responsible for regulating its own gambling activities and for ensuring compliance with Australian gambling laws. Online gambling in Australia is regulated by both the federal and state governments through the IGA. These rules include game fairness, player protections, and advertising restrictions.