ACMA Blocks Eight More Illegal Gambling Sites

Illegal gambling sites continue to pose risks to Australian players. In response, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has intensified its efforts to block unlicensed online casinos and gambling platforms. The latest enforcement action targets eight more illegal websites, further strengthening ACMA’s mission to protect consumers and uphold the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. With over 1,150 sites blocked since 2019, ACMA is making it clear—Australia’s gambling laws must be respected. What does this mean for players and the industry?

ACMA Blocks Eight More Illegal Gambling Websites in Latest Crackdown

Key Points:

1. ACMA Blocks Eight More Illegal Gambling Websites

   • Sites including JokaRoom, Wild Pokies, and Rich Papa were shut down for violating the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.
   • Internet Service Providers (ISPs) were ordered to block access to these platforms.

2. Enforcement Actions Continue to Reshape Australia’s iGaming Landscape

   • Since 2017, approximately 220 illegal operators have exited the Australian market.
   • ACMA has blocked over 1,150 illegal gambling and affiliate marketing websites since 2019.

3. Consumer Protection and Regulatory Warnings Intensify

   • ACMA warns players that unlicensed sites lack consumer protections, putting funds and personal data at risk.
   • The crackdown follows recent warnings issued to offshore operators Dama N.V. and Luster N.V..

ACMA Expands Efforts to Eliminate Illegal Online Gambling

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) continues its aggressive stance against illegal online gambling. The latest enforcement action, announced in February 2025, has resulted in eight more unlicensed gambling sites being blocked.

The following sites were found operating in violation of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 and subsequently blocked:

• JokaRoom
• AUDPokies888
• Aura Play
• Instant Casino
• Leon
• Rich Papa
• UUSpin
• Wild Pokies

These websites offered casino-style games to Australian players without holding the required licenses, making them illegal under Australian law. ACMA has once again worked with Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to block access, reinforcing its commitment to a safe and regulated gaming environment.

Australia’s Regulatory Crackdown Gains Momentum

This latest enforcement move is part of ACMA’s ongoing crackdown on illegal gambling operators. Since 2017, when stricter online gambling regulations were introduced, approximately 220 unlicensed operators have withdrawn from the Australian market.

Furthermore, since ACMA issued its first blocking request in November 2019, the regulator has successfully blocked over 1,150 illegal gambling and affiliate marketing sites.

The Interactive Gambling Act 2001 strictly prohibits unlicensed offshore operators from offering online casino games, poker, and in-play sports betting to Australian consumers. However, many illegal sites continue to target Australian players, making ACMA’s enforcement efforts crucial in limiting access to these unauthorized platforms.

Why ACMA’s Actions Matter for Australian Players

While some players may not realize they are using illegal gambling sites, ACMA stresses that unlicensed operators pose serious risks. These risks include:

• No consumer protections, meaning winnings may not be paid out.
• No responsible gambling safeguards, increasing risks of gambling harm.
• Data security concerns, as offshore sites are not required to comply with Australian privacy laws.

To help players identify legal gambling services, ACMA maintains a public register of licensed operators, allowing consumers to verify the legitimacy of any gambling platform before signing up.

Recent Regulatory Warnings and Strengthening Gambling Laws

ACMA’s recent enforcement follows formal warnings issued in January 2025 to two offshore gambling operators:

• Dama N.V.
• Luster N.V.

Both companies were found to be providing unauthorized gambling services to Australian customers across multiple platforms. ACMA’s strict enforcement ensures that such operators face consequences for violating Australian gambling laws.

Additionally, Western Australia recently announced plans to strengthen its gambling laws. The new measures will include:

• Higher financial penalties for unlicensed gambling operators.
• Enhanced enforcement powers to improve regulatory oversight.

With growing regulatory momentum, Australia is sending a clear message—illegal online gambling will not be tolerated.

What’s Next for Australia’s Online Gambling Market?

The latest blocking orders and regulatory warnings indicate that ACMA will continue targeting illegal gambling operators. Moving forward, we can expect:

• More website blocks, as ACMA actively monitors and investigates unauthorized platforms.
• Stronger consumer awareness campaigns, warning players about the dangers of illegal gambling.
• Potential legal action against repeat offenders in cooperation with Australian law enforcement.

For players, this crackdown reinforces the importance of using licensed and regulated operators. ACMA encourages consumers to check its register of approved providers and avoid illegal gambling sites that lack regulatory oversight.

ACMA Sends a Clear Warning to Unlicensed Operators

With eight more illegal gambling sites blocked, ACMA continues to lead the charge against unregulated online gambling in Australia. Since 2017, hundreds of rogue operators have exited the market, proving that strict enforcement is working.

While unlicensed gambling sites may still attempt to target Australian players, ACMA’s persistent regulatory efforts are making access increasingly difficult.

The message is clear—Australia’s gambling laws will be enforced, and illegal operators will be blocked.

As enforcement measures strengthen and more operators face legal consequences, will unlicensed gambling platforms finally stop targeting Australian players?