ACMA Clamps Down On 12 More Illegal Operators As Part Of Enforcement Plans

Australia’s communications regulator has expanded its enforcement campaign against illegal offshore gambling. The body is directing internet service providers to block access to 12 additional unlicensed gambling and affiliate marketing websites.

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) said the action follows investigations that found the websites were operating in breach of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.

This latest blocking order covers 7Signs, ChromaBet, Donbet, Duospin, Freshbet, Slots Gem, Jacks Club, Lucky Start, Pointsbetz.com, Spinrise, Vinyl Casino and Wildsino.

Among them, Pointsbetz.com attracted particular attention because it mimics the branding of licensed operator PointsBet. According to ACMA, this tactic is commonly used by illegal operators to gain consumer trust by resembling legitimate gambling brands.

Enforcement Campaign Expands Across Australia

ACMA said it has now blocked 1,751 illegal gambling and affiliate websites since introducing website blocking powers in November 2019. 

The regulator also noted that more than 230 unlicensed gambling services have withdrawn from the Australian market since enforcement efforts began in 2017.

Earlier this year, ACMA instructed providers to block another eight offshore gambling websites, including Lucky Mate, Vegastars, Wombet, Cosmobet, Fortune Play, Fortunica, Rolletto and Velobet.

The authority warns consumers that illegal gambling websites often appear legitimate but operate without the consumer protections required of licensed operators. This leaves players exposed if disputes or payment issues arise.

Illegal Operators Find New Ways To Reach Players

Although website blocking is an important enforcement tool, offshore operators keep adapting their methods.

Many quickly launch replacement domains after existing sites are blocked, while others rely on social media, affiliate websites and streaming platforms such as Kick and TikTok to attract Australian players.

According to H2 Gambling Capital’s 2025 report, commissioned by Responsible Wagering Australia, Australians lose an estimated AU$3.9 billion annually to illegal gambling websites. The report also found channelisation has fallen from 74% in 2021 to 64%.

Advertising Changes Could Create New Enforcement Challenges

Australia’s regulatory landscape is set to change further when new gambling advertising restrictions take effect in January 2027. The reforms, announced by the Albanese government, will introduce new limits across television, radio and online gambling advertising.

The restrictions could also reduce the visibility of licensed operators, potentially making it easier for offshore websites to compete for customers. 

As enforcement evolves, compliance teams, payment providers and media platforms are expected to face increasing scrutiny over links to illegal gambling promotions.

The ACMA has increased its enforcement actions by blocking 12 more illegal operators through internet service providers. These platforms keep modifying their approach, which is why the regulator must partner with other stakeholders to protect unsuspecting players.