Legislative initiatives in the field of online gambling
In 2025, Australia continues to actively reform legislation in the field of online gambling. The government and regulators are seeking to tighten control over operators, raise tax revenues and strengthen player protection mechanisms. Legislative initiatives affect both taxation and measures to prevent abuse in the industry.
Key areas of initiatives:
A number of jurisdictions, including the Northern Territory, have increased point-of-consumption tax (POCT) rates and set new minimum tax thresholds for licenses.
Increasing tax pressure on offshore platforms through increased cooperation with international regulators.
2. Tightening licensing and reporting
Mandatory full user identification (KYC) before making financial transactions.
Requiring operators to store and provide AUSTRAC and ATO with details of player transactions and bonuses for 7 years.
Introduction of mandatory audits of financial flows.
3. Augmentation of AUSTRAC and ATO powers
The ability to automatically exchange transaction data between banks, online casinos and tax authorities.
Applying big data analysis technologies to identify tax evasion and money laundering schemes.
4. Strengthening consumer protection measures
Mandatory integration of limits on deposits and rates into online services.
Banning certain types of bonus offers (for example, no deposit bonuses with a high amount of wagering) to minimize game dependence.
National Consumer Protection Framework expansion to new gambling formats including VR and streaming platforms.
5. Fighting illegal operators
Blocking sites operating without an Australian licence.
Fines for payment providers serving illegal platforms.
International cooperation to identify and close shadow gambling schemes.
Impact on players:
Impact on operators:
Conclusion
The 2025 legislative initiatives in the field of online gambling are aimed at legalizing and regulating the industry in the interests of the state and players. Increasing tax revenues, protecting consumers and combating illegal operators remain top priorities for regulators.
Key areas of initiatives:
- 1. Raising tax rates for online operators
A number of jurisdictions, including the Northern Territory, have increased point-of-consumption tax (POCT) rates and set new minimum tax thresholds for licenses.
Increasing tax pressure on offshore platforms through increased cooperation with international regulators.
2. Tightening licensing and reporting
Mandatory full user identification (KYC) before making financial transactions.
Requiring operators to store and provide AUSTRAC and ATO with details of player transactions and bonuses for 7 years.
Introduction of mandatory audits of financial flows.
3. Augmentation of AUSTRAC and ATO powers
The ability to automatically exchange transaction data between banks, online casinos and tax authorities.
Applying big data analysis technologies to identify tax evasion and money laundering schemes.
4. Strengthening consumer protection measures
Mandatory integration of limits on deposits and rates into online services.
Banning certain types of bonus offers (for example, no deposit bonuses with a high amount of wagering) to minimize game dependence.
National Consumer Protection Framework expansion to new gambling formats including VR and streaming platforms.
5. Fighting illegal operators
Blocking sites operating without an Australian licence.
Fines for payment providers serving illegal platforms.
International cooperation to identify and close shadow gambling schemes.
Impact on players:
- Improve transparency and security when playing on licensed platforms.
- Increased control over large transactions.
- Possible reduction in available bonus offers and promotions.
Impact on operators:
- Increased tax burden and compliance costs.
- Need to invest in AML/KYC and IT security systems.
- Increasing the barrier to market entry for small and overseas operators.
Conclusion
The 2025 legislative initiatives in the field of online gambling are aimed at legalizing and regulating the industry in the interests of the state and players. Increasing tax revenues, protecting consumers and combating illegal operators remain top priorities for regulators.
