Gambling research and statistics

The NSER, which operates under the name ‘BetStop’, commenced operations in August 2023. In the NT, Corporate Bookmakers (and betting exchange operators) are required to pay a sports bookmaking tax on all net revenue and also a Racing and Wagering Levy which, among things, is applied to gambling harm reduction measures. This is a departure from the previous ‘point of supply’ regime, under which states and territories derived no betting tax revenue from Corporate Bookmakers and other licensed betting operators taking bets online in the relevant jurisdiction. By way of example, putting aside a federal company tax of either 25% or 30% on profits and a goods and services tax (GST) of 10% on gross revenue, the sole casino licensee in Vic paid a multi-million-dollar licence fee to the state for the right to operate the only casino. State and territory taxation on casinos is determined on a case-by-case basis (typically during negotiations with the relevant state or territory government at the time).
On-course Bookmakers offer substantially the same fixed-odds betting on-course and, subject to approval, also over the telephone and in some instances online. With the exception of virtual/simulated racing (which is generally only offered in retail venues including hotels and clubs), this betting is generally offered at racecourses, retail venues, online and by telephone. The NICC did, however, impose a fine of AUS $15 million on account of four breaches of regulatory requirements. The Victorian regulator subsequently announced in March 2024 that it was satisfied that Crown Melbourne was suitable to operate the casino and that it was in the public interest for the casino licence to remain in force.
Gambling in Australia, including online wagering, sports betting, and lotteries, is heavily regulated and subject to licensing at both federal and state/territory levels. Using these powers, the federal government has enacted legislation regulating, amongst other things, interactive gambling, anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) and consumer and competition protections (also known as anti-trust matters in some other jurisdictions). There has been significant growth in this area with various business models implemented (including ‘membership-style’ businesses) which have been investigated by regulatory authorities and are the subject of litigation in the SA. In addition to the compulsory responsible gambling messages and warnings, it is an offence to advertise an inducement to open a betting account or to refer another person to open a betting account and, in some jurisdictions, to gamble or to gamble more frequently. A state or territory licence is typically required to operate a bingo centre in the relevant jurisdiction.

1. 1 What regulatory licences, permits, authorisations or other official approvals (collectively, “Licences”) are required for the lawful offer of the Relevant Products to persons located in your jurisdiction? Set out below is a list of the primary legislation governing gaming, betting, lotteries and social/skill arrangements for each Australian state/territory, as well as at the federal level. Each of Australia’s eight mainland states and territories separately regulates gambling activities within each of their respective jurisdictions. Any skill games and competitions with no element of chance are not typically regarded as gambling, but may still fall within certain gaming regimes when operated in a land-based context. Any skill games and competitions with no element of chance are not typically regarded as gambling, but may fall within certain ‘interactive gaming’ regimes when operated online and be regulated by state and territory gambling regulators. Such sweepstakes games can be differentiated from ‘trade promotion lotteries’ which are common in the jurisdiction.

A recent study found that 11% of Australians engaged in online gambling over the past six months, an increase from 8% in 2020. Learn the key nuances of gambling regulations and the emerging risks of problematic gambling in Australia. ICLG’s in-house editorial team carefully reviews and edits each chapter, updated annually, and audits each one for originality, relevance and style, including anti-plagiarism and AI-detection tools. The authors also anticipate reforms in the area of ‘trade promotion lotteries’ which are a form of free-entry permissible lottery conducted for the purpose of promoting a business or trade.

Unlike other jurisdictions, sweepstakes models which involve redemptions outside the platform are not operated in this jurisdiction (at least in any overt manner). While land-based casinos operate under strict Queensland state regulations, online gambling exists within a different legal framework established by Commonwealth legislation. These stricter classifications align Australia with other jurisdictions, such as the UK and EU, where similar regulations are being introduced. Each of Australia’s eight states and territories independently regulates gambling, gaming, and betting activities within their jurisdictions. Due to the nature of gambling and its potential risks, it is crucial for operators to comply with regulations designed to protect consumers and promote responsible gambling. More online gambling operators like Gigabet and Titanbet are entering the market, and more people are participating in various forms of online betting, including sports betting, casino games, poker, and more.
This establishment, operated by Morris Group, provides visitors with a charming gaming atmosphere coupled with high-quality hotel rooms and entertainment. Boasting over 300 pokies and an assortment of other engaging casino games. The establishment exudes luxury and offers patrons top-tier hotel rooms, ensuring a memorable stay. Fair Go Casino no deposit bonus offers Aussie players an easy and risk-free way to start playing with a $5 free chip using the code FAIRGO5. Explore one of the most exciting online casino offers in Australia for 2026, the Joka No-Deposit Bonus Australia! This Act, also regulated by the OLGR, specifically governs the licensing and operation of sports and race betting services in Queensland (which are permitted under Federal law). The prohibition on providing online casino-style services (pokies, blackjack, roulette) to Australians is governed by the Commonwealth (Federal) law, the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (Cth).
Encapsulating Star Entertainment Group’s genuine focus on city pride, Treasury Brisbane spectacularly showcases Queensland’s architectural heritage within its two iconic heritage buildings while shining a beacon to its bright future. Concerns have been raised about the potential impact on employees should the company enter voluntary administration. The company employs approximately 9,000 people across these states, including 3,000 in Brisbane alone, making its stability crucial to the local economy. Star is currently seeking a financial lifeline to stave off potential collapse after becoming embroiled in scandals involving criminal infiltration and money laundering across its Queensland and New South Wales properties. “Brisbane’s approach to casino development reflects the city’s overall character—more relaxed yet sophisticated, with an emphasis on blending entertainment with the natural river setting rather than creating isolated gaming precincts.
Land-based casinos in Queensland operate under regulatory supervision, ensuring player safety and fair play, adhering to established laws and regulations. Despite the availability of international online casinos, it’s crucial to note that these platforms operate outside Australian jurisdiction. This pivotal legislation, passed by the Australian Commonwealth Parliament, prohibits the advertisement and provision of real-money online gambling services to Australian citizens. Housing more than 1,300 pokies and various table games, including exclusive offerings like Treasury 21 and the Treasury Wheel, this casino ensures an immersive gaming experience complemented by luxurious choices. This opulent casino features an extensive array of gaming machines, including pokies and video poker, alongside an impressive selection of table games. This is the casino open easter saturday brisbane the primary piece of Queensland legislation that deals with online gambling. ‘Traditionally, probity checks have taken many months for new operators in casinos across the different state jurisdictions,’ creating significant transition challenges.