The authorities in Australia are attempting to curb internet wagering. In 2016, they put forward legislative revisions to their gaming statutes to address gaps that permitted activities such as internet poker and in-play sports betting.
These proposals elicited varied responses. A number of traditionalist legislators strongly supported the measures, contending that Australians require greater safeguards against the increasing quantity of internet gambling platforms targeting them. Conversely, others, such as Senator David Leyonhjelm, deemed the proposals absurd and superfluous. He posited that Australians already possess ample avenues for gambling, such as brick-and-mortar casinos, and that the internet is now ubiquitous. He maintains that the 2001 legislation aimed to prevent minors from engaging in online gambling, but it proved ineffective, and this latest endeavor is equally futile.
This is utterly absurd! Despite using a VPN and an overseas account, access is still denied?” Lionel Yarme highlighted a blatant inconsistency within the suggested law. Although the prohibition on in-play sports wagering aimed to limit game manipulation, the modifications might inadvertently achieve the reverse. “The UK possesses a controlled marketplace for live sports betting, with authorized providers generating substantial tax income. These firms have strong inspection systems that can identify questionable wagering behaviors and even track the movement of funds, making it more challenging to escape punishment for match-fixing.”
Numerous providers, including 888poker and Vera&John, have already withdrawn from Australia, and industry leaders like Pokerstars are anticipated to follow. These corporations are reluctant to function in an “uncontrolled or inadequately controlled market,” establishing a pattern for other gaming entities. During Amaya’s third-quarter earnings discussion, CFO Daniel Sebag implied a possible departure plan, stating that the company was “evaluating the relevance of the proposed legislation to player-versus-player skill-based games. If enacted, we might restrict Australian players from engaging.” It appears the Australian online gambling environment is facing a significant transformation.