Australian Gambling Laws: A Comprehensive Guide

Zane | December 5, 2024 | Updated on: April 15th, 2025

Gambling is deeply embedded in Australian culture, with millions participating in casinos, sports betting, and lotteries each year. However, the industry is heavily regulated, and both state and federal governments impose strict laws to protect consumers and maintain fair play.

Whether you’re interested in online casinos, land-based gaming, or sports betting, it’s crucial to understand the Interactive Gambling Act (IGA) of 2001 and how each state enforces its own gambling regulations.

Key Takeaways:

✔ Online casinos based in Australia are illegal – but offshore operators can accept Aussie players.
✔ Sports betting is legal and regulated – with strict guidelines in each state.
✔ Lotteries and land-based casinos are permitted – but vary by jurisdiction.
✔ State-specific gambling laws exist – licensing, taxation, and restrictions differ across Australia.

Let’s break down everything you need to know about gambling laws in Australia.

The Interactive Gambling Act (IGA) of 2001 – The Core Law Governing Online Gambling

The Interactive Gambling Act (IGA) of 2001 is the primary law regulating online gambling in Australia. It explicitly prohibits Australian-based operators from offering online casino games to local players. However, the IGA does not make it illegal for Australians to play at offshore online casinos.

What the IGA Covers:

❌ Bans online casinos, poker rooms, and in-play sports betting for Australian-based operators.
✅ Allows online sports betting and lottery services, but only with a local license.
❌ Restricts advertising of online gambling services that are not licensed in Australia.
✅ Permits Australians to gamble at offshore online casinos, though they operate outside Australian law.

📍 Important Note: While Australians can access offshore casinos, these platforms are not licensed or regulated by the Australian government, which raises concerns about consumer protection and security.

State & Territory Gambling Laws in Australia

Each state and territory enforces its own set of gambling laws regarding casino licensing, taxation, and consumer protection.

New South Wales (NSW) Gambling Laws

Land-Based Casinos – The famous Star Sydney is the only legal casino, regulated by the NSW Independent Casino Commission.
Pokies & Gaming Machines – Strict limitations exist on the number of machines allowed in pubs and clubs.
Online Gambling – Only licensed sportsbooks and lottery operators can legally operate.

Victoria (VIC) Gambling Laws

Land-Based Casinos – Crown Melbourne is Victoria’s only casino, subject to heavy state regulation.
Electronic Gaming Machines (EGMs) – A new tax was introduced in 2023 for EGMs in pubs and clubs.
Online Sports Betting – Permitted only through licensed providers.

Queensland (QLD) Gambling Laws

Casinos – Several legal casinos, including The Star Gold Coast and Treasury Brisbane.
Sports Betting – Fully legal, with online and retail sportsbooks available.
Lottery – Operated under The Lott, offering online and retail ticket sales.

Western Australia (WA) Gambling Laws

Casinos – Crown Perth is the only legal casino in WA.
Pokies – Unlike other states, pokies are only allowed inside Crown Perth.
Online Gambling – Heavily restricted, with sports betting being the only approved form.

South Australia (SA) Gambling Laws

Casinos – The Adelaide Casino operates legally under state regulations.
Betting Restrictions – Advertising gambling products faces stricter controls than in other states.
Pokies & Gaming Machines – Available in licensed venues but monitored under responsible gambling initiatives.

Tasmania (TAS) Gambling Laws

Casinos – Home to Wrest Point Casino, Australia’s first-ever casino.
Online Gambling – Restricted to sports betting and government-run lotteries.
Poker Machines – Heavily regulated under Tasmania’s new harm-minimization policies.

Northern Territory (NT) Gambling Laws

Online Sports Betting – NT is home to Australia’s biggest sportsbook operators.
Casinos – The Mindil Beach Casino Resort operates legally under NT law.
Lottery – Managed under state-run NT Lotteries.

Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Gambling Laws

Casinos – Casino Canberra is the sole casino operating under strict state regulation.
Betting & Lotteries – Sports betting is regulated, and lottery tickets can be purchased online.
Gaming Machines – Highly restricted compared to other states.

Online Gambling in Australia – What You Need to Know

Are Online Casinos Legal in Australia?

❌ No, online casinos cannot operate from Australia, but offshore casinos can legally accept Australian players.

Can Australians Play at Offshore Online Casinos?

✅ Yes, Australian players can access offshore casinos, but these platforms are not regulated by the Australian government.

Are Online Sports Betting & Lotteries Legal?

✅ Yes, online sports betting and lotteries are legal when offered by Australian-licensed providers.

Risks of Offshore Online Casinos

No Australian government protection – Winnings may not be guaranteed.
Limited responsible gambling measures – Unlike Australian-licensed sportsbooks, offshore casinos may lack player protection tools.
Payment and withdrawal issues – Some offshore casinos restrict payment methods for Australian players.

📍 Safe Gambling Tip: Always check if a gambling platform holds an Australian license (NSW, VIC, QLD, etc.) before placing bets.

Sports Betting Laws in Australia

✅ Sports betting is legal in Australia, but it is regulated differently in each state. Online and in-person betting are both available, but live (in-play) betting is restricted online.

Top Licensed Australian Sportsbooks:

📍 Important Rule: Live betting is allowed only via telephone or in person due to responsible gambling measures.

Lottery Laws in Australia

✔ Legal in all states & territories
✔ National lottery operated by The Lott (Tatts Group)
✔ Online ticket sales allowed in most states

Popular lotteries include:

Oz Lotto (Tuesday)
Powerball (Thursday)
Saturday Lotto

📍 Tip: Be cautious of unlicensed online lottery websites that claim to sell Australian lottery tickets.

Final Thoughts: Responsible Gambling in Australia

While gambling is a popular pastime in Australia, regulations are strictly enforced to protect consumers. Understanding Australian gambling laws ensures you stay compliant while enjoying a safe and responsible gaming experience.

✔ Choose Australian-licensed sportsbooks & casinos where possible
✔ Use responsible gambling tools like self-exclusion if needed
✔ Be aware of the risks when playing at offshore casinos

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

❓ Can Australians play at online casinos?
✅ Yes, but only at offshore casinos, as Australian-based online casinos are banned.

❓ Is sports betting legal in Australia?
✅ Yes, but only with licensed providers such as RTBET, SG Casino, and N1 Bet.

❓ Are gambling winnings taxed in Australia?
✅ No, individual winnings are not taxed, but operators pay a gambling tax.

❓ Are online lotteries legal?
✅ Yes, Australians can legally buy lottery tickets online via The Lott and government-licensed platforms.

Best Australian Online Casino Guides

Remember:

Always choose licensed platforms, set boundaries, and seek help if gambling affects your well-being. Stay informed and gamble responsibly to make the most of your gaming journey.