The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has announced that more websites will be blocked in an effort to protect Australians from illegal online gambling.
The move comes after the ACMA found that several offshore gambling websites were operating unlawfully in Australia, targeting vulnerable consumers and exposing them to the risks associated with illegal online gambling.
ACMA Chair Nerida O’Loughlin explained that the agency’s top priority is to protect Australians from the harms associated with illegal offshore gambling.
“We are committed to ensuring that Australians are safe when they gamble online, and that they are protected from illegal and unlicensed operators,” O’Loughlin said.
The ACMA has already blocked over 130 illegal offshore gambling websites since it assumed responsibility for enforcing the Interactive Gambling Act in 2017. The agency uses a variety of tools and mechanisms to identify and block illegal websites, including engaging with international regulators and industry stakeholders.
O’Loughlin emphasized that the ACMA’s actions are in line with the government’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the Australian gambling industry and protecting consumers from harm.
“We will continue to work with our international counterparts to identify and block illegal gambling websites, and we will take strong action against those who flout Australian laws,” O’Loughlin said.
The ACMA’s efforts have been praised by industry stakeholders, who have long called for stronger measures to combat illegal online gambling.
Tim Costello, a prominent anti-gambling advocate, applauded the ACMA’s actions and urged the government to do more to protect Australians from the dangers of illegal gambling.
“Blocking illegal offshore gambling websites is a crucial step in safeguarding Australian consumers from harm, and we commend the ACMA for taking strong action in this regard,” Costello said.
The ACMA’s announcement comes amid growing concerns about the impact of illegal online gambling on Australian consumers, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. With more people turning to online gambling as a form of entertainment and escapism, there is a heightened risk of vulnerable individuals falling prey to illegal operators.
The ACMA’s move to block more websites is a welcome development in the fight against illegal online gambling, and it underscores the agency’s commitment to protecting Australians from harm. As the government continues to crack down on illegal operators, consumers can rest assured that their safety and wellbeing are being prioritized.
