ACMA Blocks Two More Offshore Gambling Websites Amid Advertising Debate

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has taken further action to curb illegal online gambling in the country by requesting internet service providers block access to two offshore gambling websites, Lucky Block and Rooli. Both sites were found to be in violation of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001, which permits online gambling in Australia only for operators holding a local license and restricts activity to sports betting, horse racing, and lotteries. Online casino games, including slots and table games, remain prohibited.

Lucky Block, a cryptocurrency-based online casino and sportsbook, and Rooli, which operates internet casino games, were added to the growing list of websites blocked in Australia. These platforms are the latest offenders in a long line of illegal operators targeted by the ACMA. In the previous month, Casino Belle was also blocked for similar violations, following the trend of aggressive enforcement measures by the regulator.

The ACMA’s efforts have led to more than 1,059 illegal gambling and affiliate websites being blocked since its first blocking request in November 2019. Additionally, over 220 illegal gambling services have withdrawn from the Australian casino market following the introduction of stricter offshore gambling rules in 2017.

ACMA’s spokesperson reiterated the importance of such enforcement actions, stating, “Website blocking is one of a range of enforcement options to protect Australians against illegal online gambling.” The authority also emphasized that Australians engaging with unlicensed operators risk losing their money, as these services lack critical consumer protections. ACMA urges individuals to verify a gambling service’s legality through its register of licensed operators.

These latest website blockings come as the Australian government continues to grapple with new plans regarding gambling advertising reforms. The debate over advertising restrictions gained momentum following the release of the Murphy Report in June 2023, which presented 31 recommendations for overhauling the gambling sector. One key recommendation was to implement a complete ban on gambling advertising across television and radio.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has maintained that no final decision has been made regarding the proposed advertising ban. However, Albanese has expressed concern over the increasing connection between gambling and sports, stating that this link needs to be “broken,” but without resorting to a total ban on gambling advertisements.

The Green Party has also entered the discussion, recently submitting a bill to the Australian Senate that calls for a full ban on gambling advertising. In addition to the advertising ban, the bill advocates for an inquiry into the government’s response to the Murphy Report. Despite this push, the proposed legislation has a long way to go, needing to pass through multiple stages, including two readings and a potential referral to a Senate committee for further inquiry before any final vote.

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As the debate over gambling advertising continues, the ACMA remains focused on curbing illegal gambling activity. With over 1,000 illegal sites already blocked, the authority continues to monitor offshore operators and take action against those attempting to breach Australian laws. Consumers are encouraged to remain vigilant and ensure that any online gambling service they engage with is properly licensed. More information on how to protect oneself from illegal operators, along with a list of licensed wagering services, is available on the ACMA’s website.

The blocking of websites like Lucky Block and Rooli highlights the ongoing challenges faced by regulators in combating illegal offshore gambling. As Australia works towards striking a balance between consumer protection and industry regulation, enforcement actions like these are critical in maintaining the integrity of the nation’s gambling laws.

Source:

“ACMA Blocks More Illegal Offshore Gambling Websites“, acma.gov.au, October 16, 2024.