The future of online casinos in Queensland: is legalisation possible
In 2025, private online casinos in Queensland remain prohibited, with the exception of certain forms of gambling (sports betting, lotteries, sweepstakes). However, the growing interest in online gambling and the international practice of legalization raise the question of possible changes in the future.
1. Current legal framework
The federal Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (IGA) prohibits the provision of interactive gambling without a license recognized in Australia.
In Queensland, licenses for private online casinos are not issued, and regional regulation (through OLGR) is limited to control of ground operators and legal online products.
2. Factors contributing to possible legalization
2. 1. Economic incentives
Potential tax revenues to the budget under legalization are estimated at tens of millions of dollars a year.
The ability to create IT, marketing and support jobs.
2. 2. Player control and protection
Legal operators can provide age verification, betting limits and responsible play programs.
Reduced risks of fraud and non-payment of winnings compared to offshore platforms.
2. 3. International experience
The UK, Canada and some US states have shown that a regulated online casino market can be sustainable and safe under strict rules.
3. Obstacles to legalization
3. 1. Political position
Australian authorities have historically adhered to a tough line towards online casinos.
Strong influence from anti-gambling groups due to social risks.
3. 2. Social implications
Concerns about the growth of ludomania, especially among young people.
Potential increase in debt and psychological problems in vulnerable populations.
3. 3. Federal restrictions
Even if Queensland wanted to change the policy, it would need to amend the IGA at the federal level.
4. Possible development scenarios
Scenario 1. Full legalization
Creation of a licensing system for private operators with high requirements for financial stability, technical safety and protection of players.
Scenario 2. Limited legalization
Allowing certain types of online games (for example, poker or slots) through government or controlled operator platforms.
Scenario 3. Save current policy
Continuation of the ban with increased blocking of sites and financial transactions.
5. Forecast
In the next 3-5 years, the likelihood of complete legalization of online casinos in Queensland remains low due to political and social barriers. The most realistic way is to discuss the limited legalization of individual games with strict supervision and mandatory integration of responsible game tools.
Final conclusion
The future of online casinos in Queensland is directly dependent on federal policy and the willingness of authorities to balance economic benefits with social risks. Legalization is possible only with comprehensive legislative reform, including measures to protect players and control operators.
1. Current legal framework
The federal Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (IGA) prohibits the provision of interactive gambling without a license recognized in Australia.
In Queensland, licenses for private online casinos are not issued, and regional regulation (through OLGR) is limited to control of ground operators and legal online products.
2. Factors contributing to possible legalization
2. 1. Economic incentives
Potential tax revenues to the budget under legalization are estimated at tens of millions of dollars a year.
The ability to create IT, marketing and support jobs.
2. 2. Player control and protection
Legal operators can provide age verification, betting limits and responsible play programs.
Reduced risks of fraud and non-payment of winnings compared to offshore platforms.
2. 3. International experience
The UK, Canada and some US states have shown that a regulated online casino market can be sustainable and safe under strict rules.
3. Obstacles to legalization
3. 1. Political position
Australian authorities have historically adhered to a tough line towards online casinos.
Strong influence from anti-gambling groups due to social risks.
3. 2. Social implications
Concerns about the growth of ludomania, especially among young people.
Potential increase in debt and psychological problems in vulnerable populations.
3. 3. Federal restrictions
Even if Queensland wanted to change the policy, it would need to amend the IGA at the federal level.
4. Possible development scenarios
Scenario 1. Full legalization
Creation of a licensing system for private operators with high requirements for financial stability, technical safety and protection of players.
Scenario 2. Limited legalization
Allowing certain types of online games (for example, poker or slots) through government or controlled operator platforms.
Scenario 3. Save current policy
Continuation of the ban with increased blocking of sites and financial transactions.
5. Forecast
In the next 3-5 years, the likelihood of complete legalization of online casinos in Queensland remains low due to political and social barriers. The most realistic way is to discuss the limited legalization of individual games with strict supervision and mandatory integration of responsible game tools.
Final conclusion
The future of online casinos in Queensland is directly dependent on federal policy and the willingness of authorities to balance economic benefits with social risks. Legalization is possible only with comprehensive legislative reform, including measures to protect players and control operators.
