Legislative initiatives to legalize online slots
In Australia, real-money online slots are prohibited by the federal Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (IGA). Despite the strict ban, in recent years, initiatives have periodically appeared to partially or completely legalize this segment in order to regulate and tax it.
1. Key prerequisites for initiatives
Illegal market growth: Offshore platforms continue to attract Australian players, bypassing local laws.
Potential tax revenue: Analysts estimate legalization could generate hundreds of millions of dollars in the budget annually.
The need to protect players: regulation would make it possible to introduce responsible play mechanisms, mandatory slot certification and data protection.
2. Key proposals discussed in parliament and expert environment
1. Partial legalization - allowing online slots only for operators with an Australian license with strict control.
2. Limited access model - access to slots only through a centralized government portal, similar to online betting systems.
3. Operator taxation - the introduction of licensing fees and taxes on gross game income (GGR).
4. Mandatory instruments of responsible play are deposit limits, self-exclusion, regular reminders.
3. Supporters' arguments
Legalization will displace illegal operators.
Will provide RTP control, RNG integrity and payment transparency.
Will create jobs in the IT, support and regulation sector.
4. Arguments of opponents
Fears of rising cases of ludomania.
Risk of increased gambling marketing.
Social costs associated with slot availability 24/7.
5. Practice in other countries
The UK and Canada use a licensing model with strict standards for responsible play.
The US only allows online slots in individual states, leaving regulation at the regional level.
New Zealand maintains a monopoly of the state operator.
6. Current status in 2025
There is no approved bill on legalization in the federal parliament.
Discussions are conducted at the expert level, including through the digital economy and consumer protection committees.
ACMA and the Ministry of Communications emphasize that any relaxation of the law must be accompanied by tough measures to protect players.
Final conclusion
For 2025, the legalization of online slots in Australia remains a matter of debate. While the economic and regulatory benefits are clear, political and social risks make the prospect of legislation in the coming years uncertain.
1. Key prerequisites for initiatives
Illegal market growth: Offshore platforms continue to attract Australian players, bypassing local laws.
Potential tax revenue: Analysts estimate legalization could generate hundreds of millions of dollars in the budget annually.
The need to protect players: regulation would make it possible to introduce responsible play mechanisms, mandatory slot certification and data protection.
2. Key proposals discussed in parliament and expert environment
1. Partial legalization - allowing online slots only for operators with an Australian license with strict control.
2. Limited access model - access to slots only through a centralized government portal, similar to online betting systems.
3. Operator taxation - the introduction of licensing fees and taxes on gross game income (GGR).
4. Mandatory instruments of responsible play are deposit limits, self-exclusion, regular reminders.
3. Supporters' arguments
Legalization will displace illegal operators.
Will provide RTP control, RNG integrity and payment transparency.
Will create jobs in the IT, support and regulation sector.
4. Arguments of opponents
Fears of rising cases of ludomania.
Risk of increased gambling marketing.
Social costs associated with slot availability 24/7.
5. Practice in other countries
The UK and Canada use a licensing model with strict standards for responsible play.
The US only allows online slots in individual states, leaving regulation at the regional level.
New Zealand maintains a monopoly of the state operator.
6. Current status in 2025
There is no approved bill on legalization in the federal parliament.
Discussions are conducted at the expert level, including through the digital economy and consumer protection committees.
ACMA and the Ministry of Communications emphasize that any relaxation of the law must be accompanied by tough measures to protect players.
Final conclusion
For 2025, the legalization of online slots in Australia remains a matter of debate. While the economic and regulatory benefits are clear, political and social risks make the prospect of legislation in the coming years uncertain.
