The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has requested Australian internet service providers (ISPs) block two illegal offshore gambling websites.
The ACMA move comes under the Government’s new website blocking scheme, announced last week.
ACMA requested ISPs block the Emu Casino and Fair Go Casino websites following the receipt of more than 50 complaints.
Investigations by the ACMA found the online casino-style games offered were prohibited under the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.
Chair of the ACMA, Nerida O’Loughlin said the two websites were happy to take money when punters lost “but people have reported to us that they refuse to pay out winnings”.
“If you have funds deposited with these – or any other illegal offshore gambling site – you should withdraw those funds now,” Ms O’Loughlin said.
“ACMA has a range of enforcement and disruption options available to protect Australians against illegal gambling.”
However, she said that enforcing Australian laws against offshore companies was challenging.
“There is no single measure that will be successful in every case,” Ms O’Loughlin said.
Minister for Communications, Cyber Safety and the Arts, Paul Fletcher said illegal gambling websites were preying on Australians and could have devastating effects on people’s lives.
“The new website blocking scheme is an important way in which the Government is helping keep Australians safe online,” Mr Fletcher said.
“This measure is part of a range of reforms introduced by the Government in response to the O’Farrell Review into Illegal Offshore Wagering.”
More than 65 illegal companies have pulled out of the Australian market since 2017 when the ACMA started enforcing new illegal offshore gambling rules.
