ACMA continues offshore website blocking in fight against illegal gambling

Lucky Block and Rooli were both deemed to have been operating in breach of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. This led ACMA to request internet service providers in Australia to block access to the two websites.

The Interactive Gambling Act 2001 states that operators may only offer online gambling in Australia if they hold a licence. Such activity is limited to sports betting, wagering on horse racing and playing lotteries. Gaming such as online slots and table games is prohibited.

Lucky Block operates as a cryptocurrency online casino and sportsbook, while Rooli also runs internet casino games.

The two websites join a long list of websites that have been blocked in Australia. Last month, ACMA flagged Casino Belle for breaching the Act and issued a blocking order.

Among the other websites blocked in recent months are Casino Australia Online, Pokies.bet, Pokiesman and Smart Pokies.

“Website blocking is one of a range of enforcement options to protect Australians against illegal online gambling,” ACMA said. “Since ACMA made its first blocking request in November 2019, 1,059 illegal gambling and affiliate websites have been blocked.

“Over 220 illegal services have also pulled out of Australia since we started enforcing illegal offshore gambling rules in 2017.”

Debate continues over gambling advertising rules

The latest blockings come as the Australian government continues to mull over new plans for gambling advertising.

It dates back to June 2023, when the Murphy Report outlined 31 recommendations for reforming the gambling sector in Australia. This included a full ban across all TV and radio advertising. 

Australia prime minister Anthony Albanese continues to maintain that no decision has been reached. He has also denied reports the government is moving ahead with plans to impose an immediate ban on online gambling advertising.

He has, however, spoken out over the need for the government to take action. Speaking in the house of representatives last month, Albanese said the connection between gambling and sport must be “broken” but a complete advertising ban is not the solution.

This month, the Green party submitted a bill to the senate calling for a full ban on gambling advertising. It is also calling for an inquiry into a government response to Murphy Report.

The bill, however, has some way to go. It must first face two readings before moving to the senate committee phase and could possibly be referred to a committee for inquiry. After this, the senate will discuss the policy and vote on its final form.