The Australian Media and Communications Authority (ACMA) has been actively pursuing unlicensed gaming providers focusing on Australian players. Warnings were recently given to several businesses, with the information only now being released.
One provider, Mad Entertainment (operators of Golden Lion Casino), found themselves in trouble for numerous violations of the 2001 Interactive Gambling Act (IGA). It appears they were discovered offering casino options to Australians without the necessary authorization and even had their platform designed to appeal to Australians.
Paloma Media, the organization behind the esports wagering platform Thunderpick, committed a similar error. They also lacked an Australian permit while permitting entry from inside the nation.
Dama and Friolion Limited, the groups behind Betibet, also received a reprimand. The reason? Because Betibet was available to anyone utilizing an Australian internet connection. And it wasn’t just Betibet causing them problems. Dama was flagged for allowing Greenspin, Slotman, and Jeetcity to operate within Australia without a license, while Friolion was also caught with Greenspin and Slotman.
The ACMA is emphasizing that the IGA is unambiguous. If a gaming website can be accessed from Australia, it’s deemed to be targeting Australians, and that necessitates obtaining an Australian authorization.
Online platforms offering real-money wagering, encompassing both luck-based and skill-dependent games, fall under the classification of gambling platforms. In an effort to safeguard Australian citizens, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) maintains a roster of authorized gambling entities on its online portal. These providers are considered legitimate due to their vetting by regulatory authorities such as NSW Liquor & Gaming, the Northern Territory Racing Commission, the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation, and the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission.
However, challenges persist. Recently, prominent operators like Ladbrokes, Neds, bet365, and Sportsbet were found to be in violation of regulations pertaining to in-play wagering. They are not isolated incidents – the ACMA has been actively taking measures against questionable operators within Australia.
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