Australia steps up the fight against illegal online gambling
Australia is intensifying its efforts against illegal online gambling. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has ordered internet service providers to block four additional unlicensed gambling websites: Megabet Prize, Mega Medusa, TF2Royal, and Casino Intense. These platforms were found to be in violation of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. Since initiating its blocking campaign in 2019, ACMA has restricted access to over 1,210 illegal gambling and affiliate sites. Furthermore, approximately 220 illegal services have exited the Australian market entirely since 2017. ACMA warns that even professional-looking sites can lack basic customer protections, putting bettors’ funds at risk. Casino Intense, for instance, is operated by a Belize-based company licensed in Curaçao, while TF2Royal is known for its skin betting, a controversial practice often linked to unregulated markets in the esports gambling scene. With a federal election approaching, political parties are pledging tougher regulations, including the establishment of a national gambling watchdog and banning gambling ads during live sports. ACMA urges Australians to verify the legitimacy of any online gambling service before placing a bet.
