Is Online Gambling Legal in Australia in 2025? What You Need to Know

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Online gambling continues to grow in popularity across Australia, especially as mobile technology and international platforms improve. However, many Australian players still ask the same important question in 2025: Is online gambling legal in Australia?

This guide breaks down what you need to know about the current laws, how they impact players, and what’s allowed (and what’s not) under Australian regulations.

Understanding the Basics: The Interactive Gambling Act (IGA)

The Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (IGA), passed by the Australian government, remains the cornerstone of gambling legislation in the country. While it has been updated over the years, including significant amendments in 2017 and beyond, the law’s main goal is to regulate the supply—not the use—of online gambling services.

What does this mean for players?

  • It is not illegal for Australian residents to gamble online.
  • However, it is illegal for unlicensed operators to offer certain online gambling services to Australians, including online casinos and live dealer games.

The law focuses on penalizing operators, not individual players.

What Types of Online Gambling Are Legal in Australia?

In 2025, Australians are legally allowed to participate in certain forms of online gambling, including:

  • Online sports betting (with licensed operators)
  • Online lotteries and keno
  • Horse and greyhound racing bets
  • Daily fantasy sports (DFS)

However, the provision of online casino games, such as slots, blackjack, or roulette, is still prohibited for domestic companies. That said, many international casinos continue to offer services to Australians without penalty to players.

Are Offshore Online Casinos Legal to Use?

While it’s illegal for unlicensed operators to target the Australian market, many offshore casinos still accept Australian players. The Australian government has limited jurisdiction over companies that are licensed and hosted overseas.

So, is it safe?

In practice:

  • Aussie players are not prosecuted for using offshore casino sites.
  • You must ensure the site is reputable, secure, and ideally licensed by a respected authority (such as Curaçao, MGA, etc.).

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What About Cryptocurrency Gambling?

With the rise of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, many offshore casinos now allow Australian players to deposit and withdraw using crypto. There are no specific Australian laws banning cryptocurrency gambling, but these sites still fall under the same IGA rules — meaning they must not actively market to Australian players unless licensed.

Key considerations:

  • Use only well-reviewed platforms.
  • Understand the volatility and privacy implications of crypto gambling.
  • Be aware of taxation responsibilities for significant wins.

Enforcement and Player Risk

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is responsible for monitoring illegal gambling activity. Since 2017, ACMA has:

  • Blocked hundreds of unlicensed casino sites
  • Issued fines to offshore operators that violate the IGA
  • Published regular warnings for Australian consumers

But again, players are not fined or prosecuted. The government’s focus is entirely on blocking access to illegal operators and improving consumer protection.

Responsible Gambling and Player Safety

While it’s legal for Australians to gamble online through permitted channels, responsible gambling laws apply. The National Consumer Protection Framework enforces tools like:

  • Deposit limits
  • Time-out features
  • Self-exclusion programs
  • Transparency in bonus terms

Make sure any platform you use includes responsible gambling tools and offers clear information on managing your gameplay.

In 2025, online gambling is legal for Australians — but with clear restrictions on what types of gambling are permitted and who can offer them. You’re free to play online, including at offshore casino sites, provided you do so at your own risk and choose reputable platforms.

If you’re considering online pokies, sports betting, or crypto casinos, always do your research. Wondering Is SkyCrown good for pokies? Our in-depth guide answers this specifically for Australian players and pokie enthusiasts.

As always, gamble responsibly and stay informed about changes to the law.

Published by wingspoker