ACMA Warns Three Operators for Unlicensed Gambling in Australia

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has issued formal warnings to three online gambling operators – SlotCatalog, Lucky Block, and Rooli – for violations of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (IGA). Each of these operators was found to have provided unlicensed gambling services with Australian customer links, breaching the regulations aimed at protecting Australian consumers from prohibited offshore gambling services.

ACMA Cracks Down on Unlicensed Gambling Platforms

Following investigations, ACMA determined that SlotCatalog, Lucky Block, and Rooli each violated sections of the Interactive Gambling Act (IGA) by making unlicensed gambling content accessible to Australian players. These warnings serve as a critical reminder for international gambling operators that they must adhere to Australia’s licensing requirements before offering services to local customers.

Key Points:

• ACMA issued formal warnings to SlotCatalog, Lucky Block, and Rooli for breaches of the IGA.
• The operators provided unlicensed casino games and betting services accessible to Australian players.
• ACMA’s action reinforces its commitment to protecting Australians from unauthorised offshore gambling services.

SlotCatalog and Mr. Fedir Havlovskyi Face IGA Violations

SlotCatalog, represented by Mr. Fedir Havlovskyi, received a formal warning from ACMA after it was found to be facilitating access to unlicensed gambling services. SlotCatalog allegedly provided links to offshore casino platforms that could be accessed by Australian users, enabling unauthorised gambling activity in violation of the IGA.

Igloo Ventures SRL and the Lucky Block Brand

Igloo Ventures SRL, the entity behind Lucky Block, was similarly cited by ACMA for promoting online casino games and in-play betting services to Australian customers without proper licensing. The findings indicated that Lucky Block actively targeted Australian players, contravening the IGA’s licensing regulations designed to limit the availability of offshore gambling.

Dama N.V., Strukin Limited, and the Rooli Platform

Finally, Dama N.V. and Strukin Limited, operating as Rooli, were warned by ACMA after the regulator found that Rooli offered unlicensed casino games accessible to Australian players. This activity, deemed a violation of subsection 15(2A) of the IGA, confirmed that Rooli operated without the required authorisation.

ACMA’s Commitment to Protecting Australian Consumers

The formal warnings underscore ACMA’s proactive approach to enforcing gambling regulations and safeguarding Australian players. By issuing these warnings, ACMA emphasizes that foreign operators must secure appropriate Australian licenses before offering services within the country. The regulator’s actions highlight the importance of maintaining a compliant market that prioritises consumer protection and discourages unauthorised offshore gambling.

As unlicensed gambling content continues to attract Australian users, ACMA remains vigilant in its efforts to monitor and address violations, reinforcing the need for regulatory adherence among international gambling entities.

With the latest round of warnings issued to SlotCatalog, Lucky Block, and Rooli, ACMA has reinforced its stance on unlicensed offshore gambling. By upholding the Interactive Gambling Act and holding international operators accountable, ACMA seeks to maintain a secure and compliant online gambling environment, protecting Australian players from unauthorised services.