ACMA Expands Crackdown on Illegal Gambling Sites

Australia’s gambling watchdog, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), has intensified its efforts to combat illegal online gambling.

The regulator has added more unlicensed gambling websites to its blocked list, raising the total to 1,178 since 2019.

With nearly 220 illegal operators withdrawing from the market since 2017, ACMA warns consumers about the financial risks of unregulated platforms.

ACMA Expands Crackdown on Illegal Gambling Operators

Key Points of ACMA’s Latest Gambling Crackdown

• ACMA has blocked more gambling websites, including Crown Slots and Billy Billion, for violating Australian gambling laws.
• Since 2017, approximately 220 illegal operators have exited the Australian market due to ACMA’s strict enforcement.
• Unlicensed gambling platforms lack essential player protections, exposing users to potential financial risks and fraud.

ACMA’s Latest Website Blocks and Enforcement Measures

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) continues its aggressive campaign against illegal gambling operators.

The latest move sees Crown Slots and Billy Billion added to the list of websites blocked under the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.

Since its first blocking request in November 2019, ACMA has now restricted access to 1,178 illegal gambling and affiliate websites.

Key enforcement strategies include:

• Website Blocking – ACMA works with Australian ISPs to restrict access to unlicensed gambling sites.
• Operator Exits – Since 2017, 220 illegal gambling services have voluntarily left the Australian market due to regulatory pressure.
• Consumer Warnings – ACMA educates players about the dangers of using unlicensed platforms, where winnings are not guaranteed.

“Even if an online gambling service appears legitimate, unlicensed platforms do not offer key player protections,” ACMA warns.

The Dangers of Unlicensed Gambling Sites

Illegal gambling sites often operate without essential player protections, making it difficult for users to recover lost funds.

Key risks of unlicensed platforms include:

• No Consumer Safeguards – Players may face account closures, unfair losses, or withheld winnings.
• Lack of Responsible Gaming Measures – No self-exclusion options or problem gambling support.
• Risk of Financial Fraud – Transactions on illegal sites may expose users to identity theft or fraud.

How to Stay Safe:

• Check ACMA’s register of licensed wagering providers to ensure you are playing with a legal operator.Report suspicious websites directly to ACMA via its complaint portal.

“If a site is not on our licensed operator list, Australians should avoid using it,” ACMA advises.

ACMA’s Broader Enforcement Actions

ACMA’s latest gambling site bans come after a series of high-profile regulatory actions against illegal gambling activities.

Recent ACMA crackdowns include:

• Network Ten Fined – In February 2024, ACMA investigated Network Ten (Sydney) for broadcasting gambling ads during the Australia Formula 1 Grand Prix, violating TV ad restrictions.
• Affiliate Website Removals – ACMA continues to target advertising sites that promote unlicensed gambling services.

“Our focus is on making Australia’s gambling environment safer by removing illegal operators and ensuring compliance,” an ACMA spokesperson said.

ACMA’s Crackdown Strengthens Consumer Protection

ACMA’s aggressive approach is proving effective, with illegal operators leaving the market and more gambling sites being blocked.

Key takeaways:

• 1,178 websites blocked since 2019, limiting access to illegal gambling platforms.
• 220 operators forced out of Australia due to strict enforcement.
• Players urged to verify operator licences to avoid financial risks.

With ACMA continuing its enforcement actions, illegal gambling operators face increasing pressure to comply—or exit the market entirely.