The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has identified several online gambling brands operating in breach of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 and has requested Australian internet service providers (ISPs) to block access to these sites. Among the brands targeted are Cloudbet and Las Atlantis.
These blocking orders are part of the ACMA’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal online gambling in Australia. Since the enforcement of new rules in 2017, the ACMA has successfully blocked 619 illegal gambling and affiliate websites, while more than 180 illegal services have exited the Australian market.
ACMA’s Crackdown on Illegal Online Gambling:
The ACMA has been proactive in enforcing regulations to combat illegal online gambling in Australia. By targeting websites that operate without the required approval and breach the Interactive Gambling Act 2001, the ACMA aims to protect consumers and maintain the integrity of the gambling industry. The blocking requests issued by the ACMA have been effective in restricting access to these illegal sites, making it more difficult for Australian residents to engage in unauthorized online gambling activities.
Cloudbet and Las Atlantis Identified:
Among the brands identified by the ACMA are Cloudbet and Las Atlantis. These websites were found to be offering online gambling services in Australia illegally. By requesting ISPs to block access to these sites, the ACMA aims to prevent Australian residents from accessing their services and participating in unregulated gambling activities. This action serves as a warning to other operators that illegal online gambling will not be tolerated in Australia, and violators will face consequences.
Impact of ACMA’s Actions:
The ACMA’s efforts to combat illegal online gambling have yielded significant results. With 619 websites blocked since November 2019, the authority has effectively limited the reach of unlicensed operators in the Australian market. Moreover, the exit of over 180 illegal services from the country demonstrates the impact of the ACMA’s enforcement actions and sends a clear message to operators that compliance with Australian gambling laws is essential.
Additional Brands Flagged for Operating Without Approval:
In its recent announcement, the ACMA also identified several other brands operating without the required approval. These brands include Spin Oasis, Fab Spins, RB Carnival, The GoGo Room, Velvet Spin, Zenith Slots, Slots of Wins, Latinbet24, Hell Spin, Sky Crown, Blue Leo, Wolf Winner, Bizzo Casino, Wabo88, and Ozbet88. By highlighting these operators, the ACMA aims to raise awareness among Australian consumers about the risks associated with unauthorized gambling platforms and encourages them to engage only with licensed and regulated providers.
Star Entertainment’s Licence Suspension and Penalty:
In related news, land-based resort operator Star Entertainment faced significant penalties in New South Wales due to serious regulatory failings. Following an investigation by Adam Bell SC, Star was deemed unsuitable to hold a casino licence in the state.
The report revealed numerous anti-money laundering and social responsibility failings at Star Sydney, including deceptive reclassification of gambling spend, false information provided to banking institutions, and allowing potential links to organized crime. Star’s licence was suspended indefinitely, and a penalty of AUS$100 million was imposed, emphasizing the government’s commitment to upholding integrity in the casino industry.
The ACMA’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal online gambling in Australia have resulted in the identification and blocking of numerous unauthorized gambling websites. By requesting ISP blocks for brands such as Cloudbet and Las Atlantis, the ACMA aims to protect consumers and maintain the integrity of the gambling industry.
The actions taken by the ACMA send a clear message to both operators and consumers that compliance with Australian gambling laws is essential. Additionally, the penalty imposed on Star Entertainment highlights the government’s commitment to strict regulation and enforcement in the land-based casino sector. These initiatives collectively contribute to a safer and more regulated gambling environment in Australia.