Australia’s ACMA blocks 7 gambling sites, blacklist rises to 1,338

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has intensified its crackdown on illegal gambling operations, ordering internet service providers (ISPs) to block another round of unlicensed online gambling sites found to be breaching national law.

The latest sites added to the block list include Crown Gold, Maxispin Casino, Rain.gg, Didibet, LuckyBet, Malina Casino, and Spins of Glory, all of which were found to be operating in violation of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.

Action against offshore operators

In its official release, the ACMA confirmed that the blocking requests were made after investigations found these websites offering services to Australians without a valid licence. “Website blocking is one of a range of enforcement options to protect Australians against illegal online gambling,” the regulator stated.

Since the first blocking request was issued in November 2019, the total number of illegal gambling and affiliate websites blocked has now reached 1,338. Additionally, around 222 illegal services have exited the Australian market since 2017, when stricter enforcement of online gambling rules came into effect.

The ACMA has warned consumers that even when online gambling services appear legitimate, they are unlikely to offer the protections guaranteed under Australian law. “Australians who use illegal gambling services risk losing their money,” the statement added. Players can check whether a wagering service is licensed to operate in Australia through the regulator’s public register.

Key findings from recent investigations

In the second quarter (Q2) of this year, the ACMA investigated 292 of 330 complaints and enquiries received. The regulator launched 20 investigations into 24 sites, issued 10 formal warnings, and found 73 services in breach of the Interactive Gambling Act.

Hollycorn N.V. and Stellar Ltd. were among the companies warned for operating without the necessary licences. The ACMA said these actions are part of its ongoing effort to uphold integrity in Australia’s regulated gambling market and protect consumers. It further stated that repeated non-compliance may result in stronger action, including internet service providers blocking requests.

Ongoing crackdowns throughout 2025

This latest action follows a series of similar enforcement drives carried out in recent months. In August 2025, the ACMA ordered ISPs to block Slot Mafia, Top Aussie Pokies, Polymarket, and Spinanga. At that time, 1,296 illegal gambling and affiliate sites had been blocked, with over 220 services leaving the market since 2017.

In September, another round of blocks targeted Slot Lounge, Betzillo, FastSpin99, Spinit, and PokiesPros, bringing the total number of blocked sites to 1,322. Each of these investigations confirmed breaches of the Interactive Gambling Act.

By October, the figure rose again as the ACMA strengthened its enforcement of online gambling safeguards, including measures related to credit card and cryptocurrency bans for online wagering.

Warnings to offshore gambling operators

Earlier this month, the ACMA issued formal warnings to four companies accused of offering illegal gambling services to Australian consumers. These included Digibrite S.R.L. (operator of The Pokies), Just Entertainment B.V. (Lucky Ones7), Stellar Ltd. (Spinit), and Hollycorn N.V. (Slot Lounge).

Each company was found to be offering gambling products without holding the necessary Australian licences. The ACMA emphasised that these operations breached the Interactive Gambling Act 2001, which prohibits unlicensed operators from providing online casinos, slot machines, or live sports betting services to Australians.

The regulator said these actions harm the legal gambling market and could put players’ money in danger. It added that if the rules are violated again, more steps could be taken, including asking internet providers to block the sites.

Expanding oversight and compliance measures

The ACMA has been proactive in expanding its oversight mechanisms. In its 2024–25 compliance report, the authority highlighted strong industry compliance following the introduction of the credit card and cryptocurrency ban for online wagering.

The report also detailed actions taken to enforce the National Self-Exclusion Register (NSER), monitor adherence to new payment restrictions, and strengthen measures against illegal offshore gambling operations.

In addition to its gambling oversight, the ACMA also continues to monitor compliance in other areas. In July 2024, the regulator fined Betfair Australia AUS$870,000 ($567,082) for breaches of spam laws.

Tackling broader digital challenges

In September, the ACMA published its fourth report on the Australian Code of Practice on Disinformation and Misinformation, noting that while many online platforms were updating their policies to account for the rise of AI tools, progress in fact-checking had “stalled.”

The report called for greater investment in digital literacy programmes to help ensure that information reaches its intended audience responsibly.

Protecting Australian consumers

The ACMA continues to remind consumers about the importance of using licensed services. Its website provides information on how to identify illegal operators, protect oneself from scams, and file complaints about unlawful gambling sites.

“Even if a service looks legitimate, it’s unlikely to have important customer protections,” the regulator reiterated. “Australians who use illegal gambling services risk losing their money.”

With over 1,338 sites blocked and more investigations ongoing, the ACMA is working to keep Australia’s online gambling safe and following the law.

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