ACMA and legal status of casinos in Australia

ACMA and legal status of casinos in Australia

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is a key government body regulating the online gambling industry in Australia. For players, ACMA is the guarantor that the gambling market develops within the law, and their interests are protected. Understanding the role of ACMA helps assess which casinos are legal and which operate illegally, and what risks are associated with choosing a particular platform.

1. The role of the ACMA in regulating gambling

ACMA is responsible for overseeing and enforcing the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (IGA), which regulates online casinos, bookmakers and other gambling operators. The main functions of ACMA include:
  • Control over compliance with the legislation by operators.
  • Suppression of unlicensed online casinos.
  • Blocking access to illegal sites through Internet providers.
  • Oversight of gambling advertising so that it is compliant and does not target vulnerable groups, including minors.

2. Legal status of online casinos in Australia

Only casinos licensed by Australian or approved international regulators are legal and comply with IGA requirements.
Overseas operators are banned from operating without an Australian licence, even if they accept Australian players.
Operators who violate the law are blacklisted by ACMA and blocked.

3. How ACMA protects players

Blocking fraudulent sites - more than a thousand illegal casinos and poker platforms have already been blocked.
Ad monitoring - Ban misleading or aggressive marketing campaigns.
Right to complain - Any player can appeal to the ACMA if their rights or fair play rules are violated.

4. Responsibilities of licensed casinos

Casinos under the control of ACMA are required to:
  • Use certified random number generators (RNG).
  • Support responsible play tools (deposit limits, self-exclusion).
  • Keep player funds in separate accounts.
  • Provide transparent bonus and betting rules.

5. Why it's important to know the legal status of casinos

Funds Protection - Licensed casinos are required to return winnings on time.
Reducing fraud risks - operators are under state control.
Access to legal protection - the opportunity to officially challenge the actions of the casino.

6. Result

ACMA plays a key role in providing an honest and safe playing environment for Australians. By choosing a casino that meets ACMA requirements and has legal status, players gain not only access to gambling, but also confidence that their rights will be protected and the gaming process will be transparent and secure.