Online Gambling in Australia 2025

Approved and Prohibited Activities

Offshore Operations: While Australian companies cannot offer online casino services to domestic players, they are permitted to offer their services to players in other countries, provided those jurisdictions are not on Australia's designated countries list (which was empty as of early 2025).

Regulatory Bodies and Enforcement

Australia has implemented stringent regulatory measures to enforce compliance:

Since September 29, 2024, all online gambling providers operating within Australia must adhere to customer identification procedures (ACIP) before opening accounts or providing specific services. This mandate was initiated by the Australian Transaction Reporting and Analysis Center (AUSTRAC) to combat criminal activity and ensure adherence to the National Self-Exclusion Register.

The Northern Territory issues Internet Gaming Licenses to Australia-based operations that target foreign markets through the Department of Industry, Tourism, and Trade. These licenses require applicants to meet specific requirements regarding reputation and business capability.

Current Trends and Developments

The regulatory landscape continues to evolve, with several notable developments in 2025:

Australian investors and entrepreneurs seeking to enter the gambling market must look to offshore operations targeting other markets as a viable alternative. Some have established operations in jurisdictions that permit such activities while ensuring they do not accept Australian players.

Identification verification has become increasingly stringent, with new requirements implemented to enhance player protection and prevent money laundering activities. These measures reflect global trends toward greater accountability in online gambling.

Challenges and Compliance Considerations

The penalties for violating Australian gambling regulations can be severe, with substantial fines imposed on non-compliant operators. This makes thorough legal research essential for any business considering entry into this sector.

Businesses must remain vigilant about compliance with the laws of every jurisdiction where they maintain a legal presence to ensure continued service to their players. This includes understanding both federal and state/territory-specific regulations that may apply to gambling operations.

Future Outlook

The distinction between permitted and prohibited forms of online gambling in Australia is likely to remain clear for the foreseeable future. While there have been ongoing discussions about potential regulatory changes, the fundamental prohibition on online casino gaming appears firmly established in the current legal framework.

Australian gambling enthusiasts will continue to navigate this complex legal landscape, with many likely to seek offshore platforms despite domestic prohibitions. Meanwhile, regulatory bodies will likely enhance enforcement measures to protect consumers and maintain the integrity of Australia's gambling industry.