Expected Legislative Changes 2025-2026
1) Reasons for upcoming changes
The Australian government continues to adapt legislation to the explosion of online gambling and new technological challenges. An increase in the number of offshore operators, the development of cryptocurrency payments and increased attention to the problem of gambling addiction form the basis of future reforms.
2) Main directions of expected changes
2. 1. Strengthening control over offshore operators
Expanding the powers of the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) to block not only sites, but also mobile applications of illegal casinos.
Introduction of mandatory international data exchange with regulators (MGA, UKGC, Curacao eGaming) for prompt identification of violators.
Potential tougher liability for foreign operators hosting Australian players without an AU licence.
2. 2. Regulation of cryptocurrency transactions
Establishing clear rules for the use of cryptocurrencies in online casinos.
Licensed operators will be required to disclose the conversion rate, fees and source of the player's crypto assets.
Possible introduction of limits on deposits and withdrawal of funds in cryptocurrency to protect against money laundering.
2. 3. New standards of responsible play
Mandatory personal deposit and wagering limits for each player at registration.
Unified national database of self-excluded users, valid for all licensed operators.
Introduction of pop-up notifications about the duration of the session and the amount of lost funds.
2. 4. Tight regulation of bonuses and promotions
Banning aggressive bonus offers without checking a player's age and source of income.
Restriction on the size of welcome bonuses and tightening requirements for transparency of wagering conditions.
Mandatory publication of real chances to win bonus bets.
2. 5. Increased requirements for gambling advertising
Expansion of time restrictions on the display of advertising on the air and on the Internet.
Ban on targeting minors and vulnerable categories of the population.
Requirement to accompany ads with warnings about gambling risks.
3) Possible impact on players
Positive: safer environment, transparent playing conditions, protection against scammers.
Negative: a decrease in the number of available offshore casinos, tightening bonus policies, potential restrictions on deposits.
4) Possible impact on operators
The need to adapt to new licensing requirements and AML (Anti-Money Laundering).
Increased costs for technical compliance with safety standards and responsible play.
Increased competition between operators complying with the new rules.
5) Final forecast
In 2025-2026, the Australian online gambling market will become even more regulated. The main emphasis will be on protecting players, preventing gambling addiction and combating illegal operators, especially in the cryptocurrency segment. Legal casinos will have to invest in technology and transparency to meet new standards and maintain player confidence.
The Australian government continues to adapt legislation to the explosion of online gambling and new technological challenges. An increase in the number of offshore operators, the development of cryptocurrency payments and increased attention to the problem of gambling addiction form the basis of future reforms.
2) Main directions of expected changes
2. 1. Strengthening control over offshore operators
Expanding the powers of the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) to block not only sites, but also mobile applications of illegal casinos.
Introduction of mandatory international data exchange with regulators (MGA, UKGC, Curacao eGaming) for prompt identification of violators.
Potential tougher liability for foreign operators hosting Australian players without an AU licence.
2. 2. Regulation of cryptocurrency transactions
Establishing clear rules for the use of cryptocurrencies in online casinos.
Licensed operators will be required to disclose the conversion rate, fees and source of the player's crypto assets.
Possible introduction of limits on deposits and withdrawal of funds in cryptocurrency to protect against money laundering.
2. 3. New standards of responsible play
Mandatory personal deposit and wagering limits for each player at registration.
Unified national database of self-excluded users, valid for all licensed operators.
Introduction of pop-up notifications about the duration of the session and the amount of lost funds.
2. 4. Tight regulation of bonuses and promotions
Banning aggressive bonus offers without checking a player's age and source of income.
Restriction on the size of welcome bonuses and tightening requirements for transparency of wagering conditions.
Mandatory publication of real chances to win bonus bets.
2. 5. Increased requirements for gambling advertising
Expansion of time restrictions on the display of advertising on the air and on the Internet.
Ban on targeting minors and vulnerable categories of the population.
Requirement to accompany ads with warnings about gambling risks.
3) Possible impact on players
Positive: safer environment, transparent playing conditions, protection against scammers.
Negative: a decrease in the number of available offshore casinos, tightening bonus policies, potential restrictions on deposits.
4) Possible impact on operators
The need to adapt to new licensing requirements and AML (Anti-Money Laundering).
Increased costs for technical compliance with safety standards and responsible play.
Increased competition between operators complying with the new rules.
5) Final forecast
In 2025-2026, the Australian online gambling market will become even more regulated. The main emphasis will be on protecting players, preventing gambling addiction and combating illegal operators, especially in the cryptocurrency segment. Legal casinos will have to invest in technology and transparency to meet new standards and maintain player confidence.
