The Australian Media and Communications Authority (ACMA) is taking action against illicit wagering platforms once more, directing Australian internet providers (ISPs) to restrict connections to numerous websites. A few of the latest domains added to the blacklist include titles like Lucky7even, Zota Bet, Casino Infinity, and 50 Crowns.
This is not unprecedented, however. The ACMA has been striving to safeguard Australians from unlawful betting since 2019, and they have obstructed over 900 gaming websites and associated sites. They have also withdrawn 221 permits from illicit services during that period. Restricting these sites is just one method the ACMA is combating illegal gambling.
Any website providing unauthorized gambling choices to Australians, such as internet casinos, slot machines, or online sports wagering, could be blocked. This also applies to platforms functioning without a permit or providing unregulated services.
This most recent prohibition comes after several others, including crackdowns in December 2022 and June 2023. In December, the ACMA issued a caution to operators like Mad Entertainment and Paloma Media for recurring violations of the Interactive Gambling Act of 2001 (IGA).
This development coincides with a period of turbulence in the Australian gambling sector, with bet365 recently facing scrutiny by AUSTRAC.
At the beginning of the month, AUSTRAC, the Australian financial intelligence unit, levied penalties on multiple firms for neglecting to comply with anti-money laundering and terrorism financing rules. The agency’s head, Brendan Thomas, stressed the susceptibility of enterprises with insufficient risk management protocols, asserting they transform into prime targets for illicit activities.
Furthering the series of sanctions, the Royal Hotel in Waratah incurred fines the previous week for thirteen violations of gaming statutes.
In a distinct occurrence that highlights the significance of suitable professional behavior, Tabcorp’s Managing Director and CEO, Adam Rytenskild, stepped down from his role last week. This action followed accusations of inappropriate language, considered unsuitable for his position of authority. Although Rytenskild claimed no memory of using such language, he opted to resign from his post.