ACMA Blocks More Illegal Gambling Sites and Targets Influencers

ACMA Intensifies Crackdown by Blocking Illegal Gambling Sites

Australia’s ACMA just blocked five more illegal gambling sites—bringing the total to nearly 1,300 blocked since 2019.

The regulator is also cracking down on influencers promoting these offshore casinos, hitting them with hefty fines.

As a gambling sector insider, I applaud proactive measures that safeguard consumers and uphold the law.

Let’s explore why these updates matter, what risks remain, and how Aussies can steer clear of illegal platforms.

Key Points

• ACMA blocked five new illegal gambling websites for violating the Interactive Gambling Act.
• Australia has now blocked about 1,279 sites since November 2019.
• Influencers now face fines up to AU$59,400, while facilitating links can attract AU$2.5 million penalties.

Why ACMA’s latest crackdown is both timely and crucial

Today (17 July), the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) added five illegal gambling websites—like Best Aussie Pokies and winspirit.online—to its block list. This brings the total to around 1,279 sites blocked since November 2019 .

Blocking ISPs is just one tool in the ACMA’s enforcement toolbox. They’re also raising the alarm on social media influencers who promote unlicensed sites. Those caught risk civil penalties up to AU$59,400, or AU$2.5 million if they actively provide links to such platforms.

1. Consumers deserve protection—not pitfalls

Illegal gambling platforms often disappear with a customer’s money—or refuse withdrawals. The ACMA’s efforts aim to shield Australians from these risks. Even slick-looking offshore sites rarely offer responsible gambling resources, making them dangerous options.

2. Influence has a real cost

As I’ve seen firsthand, innocent-looking social media posts can funnel followers into shady gambling sites. ACMA views this seriously now. Influencers can be fined up to AU$59,400 for promoting illegal services, while linking to them carries a staggering AU$2.5 million penalty. With thousands of young Aussies affected, this crackdown is essential.

3. It’s more than blocking—it’s ecosystem control

The ACMA isn’t just blocking websites. They are working with ISPs, monitoring social media, and investigating licensed operators who breach self-exclusion rules . This shows a multi-pronged strategy that reinforces legal gambling markets.

Australia’s ACMA is firing on all cylinders—blocking illegal gambling sites, penalising risky influencers, and enforcing rules across the ecosystem. From where I stand, this is essential work. Illegal operators and exploitative promotions thrive on gaps and gray areas.

By boosting enforcement and spreading awareness, the ACMA helps ensure safer gambling for all Australians. Let’s stay alert, avoid unlicensed sites, and follow verified channels. And influencers—yes, that includes you—watch your endorsements. The cost of failure is real.