ACMA Blocks Six More Illegal Gambling Sites

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-05-21

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has directed internet service providers (ISPs) to block six additional illegal online gambling websites. These sites were found to be operating in violation of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. ### What Sites Were Blocked? The latest platforms added to the blocklist are: - Play Jonny - ACO96 - TCL99 - Waboom77 - Wonaco - WooSpin This action is part of a broader enforcement strategy. The ACMA wants to protect Australian consumers from unlicensed operators who often lack consumer protections.  ### Why Website Blocking Matters Website blocking is a key tool for regulators. It helps prevent Australians from accessing dangerous gambling sites. Since issuing its first blocking request in November 2019, the ACMA has blocked over 600 illegal gambling and affiliate websites. Think of it like a digital fence. When you block access at the ISP level, you make it harder for people to stumble onto shady sites. It's not a perfect solution, but it's an effective first line of defense. ### How the ACMA Identifies Illegal Sites The ACMA investigates complaints and monitors the online gambling landscape. They look for sites that offer prohibited services, like online casinos or sports betting without a license. Once they confirm a violation, they issue a formal notice to ISPs. This process is thorough. The ACMA doesn't just block any site. They follow strict legal procedures to ensure they're targeting actual offenders. ### The Bigger Picture for Australian Gambling Australia has strict laws around online gambling. The Interactive Gambling Act 2001 makes it illegal to offer certain gambling services to Australian residents without a license. This includes online casinos, poker, and in-play sports betting. But enforcement is tricky. Many illegal operators are based overseas, making it hard to shut them down directly. That's where website blocking comes in. It's a practical way to cut off access without needing international cooperation. ### What This Means for Players If you're an Australian gambler, these blocks are good news. They help ensure you're only using licensed, regulated sites. Licensed operators have to follow rules about fair play, responsible gambling, and customer protection. Unlicensed sites don't. Here's a quick list of what licensed sites offer: - Fair game odds - Secure payment processing - Responsible gambling tools - Dispute resolution mechanisms Illegal sites might offer better bonuses, but they come with real risks. Your personal data could be stolen. You might not get paid if you win. And there's no one to complain to if something goes wrong. ### The Role of ISPs Internet service providers in Australia are required to comply with ACMA blocking requests. Most ISPs have automated systems to handle these requests quickly. Within days, the blocked sites become inaccessible to their customers. This is a cooperative effort. ISPs don't want to host illegal content either. They work with the ACMA to keep the internet safe for everyone. ### What's Next for the ACMA? The ACMA shows no signs of slowing down. They continue to monitor the market and take action against new threats. Expect more blocking requests in the future as illegal operators try to find ways around the system. For now, the message is clear: if you operate an illegal gambling site targeting Australians, you will get blocked. And if you're a player, stick with licensed sites. Your money and your safety are worth it.