The AML/CTF Act also contains criminal provisions and it is possible that AUSTRAC may seek to apply these provisions in relation to non-compliance going forward. AUSTRAC has also recently commenced the first prosecution of a prominent licensed club group for alleged breaches of the AML/CTF Act related to its operation of gaming machines. The introduction of the power for particular regulators to issue penalty infringement notices for certain gambling-related offences as an alternative to commencing court action has been a recent development in this jurisdiction. Although state and territory-based gambling regulators have historically shown a willingness to work cooperatively with licensees in relation to possible breaches of local laws (as a general comment, our observation is that regulator tolerance for non-compliance is reducing). State and territory licensees are expected to have appropriate controls in place to ensure that they comply with their licence obligations, including relevant laws and any conditions attaching to their licence. Have fines, licence revocations or other sanctions been enforced in your jurisdiction?
We take a look at the key events that will determine the future of the best Aussie pokies. "The Star announced a cashless and carded play trial in NSW on February 22 and is in communication with the OLGR (Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation) in Queensland about similar measures." "When we talk about responsible gambling, we're blaming that gambler, and that just increases the shame and increases the isolation," she said. Legislation has also been updated to replace the terms "responsible gambling" and "problem gamblers" with more suitable wording — to reduce stigma. Casinos will also be required to pay an annual levy, which will be used to fund the regulation of the sector and programs aimed at reducing gambling harm. "The whole commercial model for casinos is dependent on people who are addicted." Operators will also be required to collect and share player card data, including player losses and wins, products played and how long they play.
The number of licences available are limited and there are typically only one per state and territory (except in the case of current casino licences held in each of Qld, NT and NSW, the two recently issued Vic keno licences, and potentially for new wagering licences) and the processes are very infrequent. Casino licences can typically only be applied for through a competitive tender process run by the relevant state or territory. Gaming machine and other equipment manufacturers, software developers and technical services suppliers selling products and/or services used for gambling-related activities are also required to hold a relevant licence (including providers of gaming machine monitoring services). Hotels and clubs hold a venue operator’s licence and a permit/licence to operate each gaming machine within the licensed premises.
Online casinos also offer a wider range of games than most land-based venues, including thousands of slot titles, live dealer games, and instant-win casino-style games. Mobile accessibility, faster payment options, and broader game libraries have made online casinos more appealing to players who value convenience and flexibility. Advances in technology, shifting player expectations, and ongoing regulatory developments have all contributed to how the market is evolving. ICLG's in-house editorial team carefully reviews and edits each chapter, updated annually, and audits each one for originality, relevance and style, including anti-plagiarism and AI-detection tools. The authors also anticipate reforms in the area of ‘trade promotion lotteries’ which are a form of free-entry permissible lottery conducted for the purpose of promoting a business or trade. 5.1 What (if any) intended changes to the gambling law/regulations are being discussed currently? In a land-based context, the Victorian regulator has been particularly active in targeting underage gambling in pubs and clubs in particular – a practice that is illegal in all Australian jurisdictions.
These reforms can place operators’ costs, particularly those who have to adapt to new compliance costs, higher. In addition, harm reduction approaches like BetStop (national self-exclusion register) are currently fashionable but seen by a number as reactive, rather than preventive, measures. Mobile payment schemes are also on the rise, spurred by the widespread availability of smartphones. The Australian online gambling market saw payment patterns shift on the back of legislation reforms, i.e., prohibiting credit card gambling use into action by 2023.
Interest in the mentioned formats is steadily growing, and this is not just a coincidence. To ensure safety, Australians are advised to check the ACMA public register to ensure that the betting service is licensed to operate in the country. In some States, they are equated with gambling and regulated accordingly.
Australia has joined the ranks of countries that have tightened regulation of lootboxes and gambling elements in video games. Some supported the initiative, considering it necessary to protect young people from potential risks. The Australian Government has expressed concern about the impact of gambling-like mechanics on young people. In September 2024, new regulations aimed at tightening gambling laws came into force in Australia. This emphasises the need for global gambling operators to pay attention to compliance with international standards and local anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing laws. Entain has previously faced regulatory action in other jurisdictions.
In the case of lotteries, aside from Tas (which operates under renewable five-year permits linked to Victorian and Queensland licences) and WA (where lotteries are owned and operated by the state), the expiry dates are generally shorter than in relation to Retail Wagering; however, they still range between 2024 and 2072. The number of gaming machines available in each state and territory is strictly regulated. An application for a Corporate Bookmaker Licence issued in the NT, or an application for an On-course Bookmaker Licence, typically takes between three and six months for approval and can be made at any time.
However, ongoing regulatory reforms could change market conditions, in which case operators will need to remain agile and proactive in addressing compliance challenges. The Australian iGaming market is already experiencing steady growth, with revenue growth forecast to be driven by mobile gaming and technological innovation. Emerging trends such as e-sports and immersive technology are changing consumer behaviour, while reviewing legislation is aimed at further enhancing the protection of the consumer. Regulatory frameworks such as the Interactive Gambling Act (IGA) create rigorous compliance and licensing mechanisms that are hard but offer chances to those operators well-placed to re-align. The Australian online gaming market has maintained steady growth due to the increased smartphone penetration, technological advancements, and the strong cultural inclination towards gambling. Additionally, the banning of credit card usage on internet gambling and a prospective future possible ban on advertising will encourage operators to innovate in regards to payment mechanisms and advertising.