The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has requested the blocking of a further eight websites it deems to be offering gambling in the country illegally.
ACMA said each of the sites is operating in breach of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. As such, it is requesting internet service providers (ISPs) to block access to the illegal sites.
Domains flagged include Jogi Casino, Dundee Slots, Lucky Hunter, Lucky Wins, Lukki Casino, Spin Fever, Clubhouse Casino and Winport Casino.
Since the ACMA made its first blocking request in November 2019, some 975 gambling and affiliate websites have been blocked. In addition, over 220 illegal services have pulled out of Australia since the ACMA started enforcing illegal offshore gambling rules.
ACMA committed to protecting players
Website blocking is one several enforcement options to protect consumers against illegal gambling services.
ACMA says it can take such action if a site offers games not covered by Australian law such as online casino, online slots and in-play online sports betting. Blocking can also be requested if a site is operating online gambling without a valid licence.
Blocking orders are not limited to gambling websites. ACMA can also make similar requests against sites that publish adverts for prohibited gambling services or unlicensed operations.
“ACMA is reminding consumers that even if a service looks legitimate, its unlikely to have important consumer protections,” ACMA said. “This means our laws can’t help if something goes wrong, like if the service provider withholds winnings.
“Australians can check if a wagering service is licensed to operate in Australia on our register.”
Blocking requests continue to mount up
So far this year, ACMA has requested blocking orders against a total of 28 websites, including the latest round.
In March, ACMA flagged eight sites for beaching national law. These include Lucky7even, 50 Crowns, Rockwin, Bitdreams, Mr Pacho, Casino Infinity, Zota Bet and Spicyjackpots.
Meanwhile, in February, ACMA singled out 12 other websites. Playzilla, Wazamba, Zet Casino, Slots Palace, Nomini, Casinia, SG Casino, Fez Bet, Buran Casino, Spin Better, Golden Bet and Clash.gg were all deemed to be operating illegally.
This followed ACMA clamping down on four major operators for breaching in-play betting rules. Late last year, ACMA flagged Entain-owned Ladbrokes and Neds, as well as Hillside’s Bet365 and Sportsbet.
ACMA said the operators breached interactive gambling rules by using Fast/Quick codes to facilitate in-play betting on sports. The Interactive Gambling Act 2001 prohibits in-play betting on sports matches, with only limited exceptions.
However, ACMA later conceded the brands eventually complied with rules. As such, it is not taking any further action over the matter.