ACMA Expands Enforcement Against Illegal Online Gambling

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has directed internet service providers (ISPs) to block six additional illegal online gambling websites, following investigations that found the platforms were operating in violation of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. The latest sites added to the blocklist are Play Jonny, ACO96, TCL99, Waboom77, Wonaco, and WooSpin.

Website blocking forms a key part of the ACMA’s broader enforcement strategy to shield Australian consumers from unlicensed gambling operators. Since issuing its first blocking request in November 2019, ACMA has successfully blocked a total of 1,708 illegal gambling and affiliate websites. Alongside this, over 230 illegal services have voluntarily exited the Australian market since the authority began enforcing updated illegal online gambling rules in 2017.

Protecting Consumers from Risk

The ACMA cautions that illegal online gambling platforms, even if they appear professional, rarely provide adequate consumer protections. Australians who engage with these unlicensed services risk losing money and may be exposed to other harms associated with unregulated operators. The regulator encourages users to verify whether a wagering service is licensed to operate in Australia by consulting ACMA’s official register of authorized providers.

Website blocking is only one of several enforcement measures ACMA employs to ensure compliance with the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. As stated on the regulator’s website, it also provides guidance for consumers on how to protect themselves from illegal gambling services and offers instructions for filing complaints against unlicensed operators. These combined actions aim to maintain fairness and security in Australia’s online gambling sector.

The ACMA continues to monitor the online gambling market to prevent illegal operators from targeting Australians. Blocking requests are coordinated with ISPs, ensuring unlicensed platforms cannot reach consumers. This initiative is part of ACMA’s larger strategy to support legitimate, licensed operators while limiting access to operators who do not adhere to Australian regulations.

The regulator also highlights the importance of industry cooperation. Licensed operators, payment providers, and consumers all play a role in maintaining a safe gambling ecosystem. By adhering to licensing rules and reporting suspicious activity, participants help ACMA prevent the proliferation of illegal platforms.

Comprehensive Consumer Information

Alongside enforcement, ACMA emphasizes the importance of consumer awareness. Australians are urged to consult official guidance on online gambling, including information on licensed operators and advice on filing complaints about unregulated services. The regulator’s website provides resources to help users identify legal gambling operators and understand the risks associated with illegal websites.

The blocking of these six additional platforms demonstrates ACMA’s commitment to tackling unlicensed operators and protecting Australians from financial and legal risks associated with illegal online gambling. As part of ongoing efforts, the regulator will continue to employ a combination of enforcement actions, public education, and industry collaboration to maintain a secure and fair online gambling environment.

By combining proactive site blocking, awareness campaigns, and collaboration with industry stakeholders, the ACMA aims to ensure that Australians have access only to licensed, regulated gambling services and are safeguarded from the risks posed by illegal operators.