Australia launches ISP blocking on offshore operators
Communications and Media Authority orders internet service providers to block illegal offshore gambling firms
Australia has enacted new legislation to block illegal offshore gambling firms from operating in the country from today.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has been given the power to order internet service providers to block offshore gambling operators that target Australian punters.
Under the legislation, ACMA will investigate suspect sites and can refer those in breach of the Interactive Gambling Act to internet service providers to be blocked.
The new measures are the final part of a part of a series of interactive gambling laws recommended by former NSW premier Barry O’Farrell in 2015.
According to ACMA, more than 65 illegal operators have pulled out of the market since enforcement action began in 2017.
Australian communications minister Paul Fletcher estimated around A$400m is spent annually by Australians on illegal gambling, accounting for around $100m in lost tax revenue each year.
Fletcher told the Australian Associated Press: “Too often these offshore operators are defrauding Australians and their websites typically provide very few, if any, harm-minimisation controls.”
Australian betting could also be set for a big shake-up in 2020 after Tabcorp unveiled plans to launch a National tote pool.
Racing bodies are keen to reduce the leakage of turnover from racing to other sports, and a more competitive tote product is seen as a potential solution.