The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has taken further action against illegal online gambling operators, asking Australian Internet Service Providers (ISP) to block more websites.
The latest enforcement measures were taken after investigations confirmed that these websites' operations violated the Interactive Gambling Act of 2001.
The newly blocked websites include Crown Slots and Billy Billion.
Website blocking is one of several strategies employed by ACMA to protect Australian consumers from unlicensed gambling services.
Since the first blocking request in November 2019, a total of 1178 illegal gambling and affiliate websites have been restricted in Australia.
In addition to blocking websites, ACMA's enforcement efforts since stricter regulations came into effect in 2017 have prompted about 220 illegal gambling operators to exit the Australian market.
The regulatory body continues to remind consumers that even if online gambling services appear legal, unlicensed platforms do not offer protection for key players. This means individuals using illegal services may face the risk of losing funds with almost no recourse.
Notably, last month, ACMA blocked an additional eight gambling websites, including JokaRoom, AUDPokies888, and Wild Pokies.
ACMA provides a public register of licensed gambling services where users can verify whether operators are authorized to offer gambling services in Australia.
Additionally, the ACMA website also offers resources for identifying illegal gambling platforms and for lodging complaints against suspected unlicensed operators.
The latest enforcement action is one of several recent actions taken by ACMA, including an investigation into Network Ten (Sydney) for broadcasting gambling advertisements during the 2024 Australian Formula One Grand Prix, in violation of the Australian Commercial Television Code of Practice.
