The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has enforced regulatory actions against various gaming and affiliate marketing websites. These platforms were discovered to be operating in violation of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. The ACMA’s stringent enforcement measures are part of an ongoing effort to maintain legal compliance and protect consumers in the digital gaming space. Such actions underscore the ACMA’s commitment to upholding the integrity of Australia’s online gambling regulations.
The websites and affiliate marketing sites that were targeted for blocking include:
ACMA blocks over 220 illegal gambling services
Since 2019, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has successfully blocked more than 220 illegal gambling services and 1,026 illegal gambling and affiliate websites. The latest report, covering April to June 2024, underscores the agency’s ongoing efforts to combat unlawful gambling activities.
Key actions from April to June 2024
- Investigated numerous complaints;
- Issued formal warnings to offenders;
- Blocked multiple websites and URLs involved in illegal gambling;
Statistics
| Year | Illegal Services Blocked | Websites and URLs Blocked |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 50 | 150 |
| 2020 | 60 | 250 |
| 2021 | 40 | 200 |
| 2022 | 35 | 206 |
| 2023 | 25 | 170 |
| 2024 (up to June) | 10 | 50 |
The agency’s dedicated efforts to uphold legal compliance continue to play a crucial role in protecting Australian consumers from illegal gambling operators.
Focus on safeguarding children from harmful exposure
Australia’s Alliance for Gambling Reforms has intensified its efforts to call for a nationwide ban on all forms of gambling advertisements. The primary aim of this initiative is to protect vulnerable children from the pervasive influence of gambling promotions.
According to legal-compliance experts, the saturation of gambling ads poses significant risks to young audiences, potentially fostering addiction and other related issues. The Alliance urges legislative action to eliminate these advertisements, thereby ensuring a safer environment for future generations.
