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Many players in Australia search for online casinos, but the rules in 2026 remain very strict. While pokies and casino games are popular in physical venues, real-money online casinos are not allowed to operate in the country. Knowing what is legal and what is not can help players avoid trouble and keep their money safe.
Are Online Casinos Legal in Australia
Online casinos are not legal to run in Australia. This is controlled by the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. The law stops operators from offering online pokies, table games like blackjack, and other casino-style games to people living in Australia.
Australia does not give licenses for online casinos. This means no local company can legally run a real-money casino website for Australian players.
Some players still visit offshore websites that are licensed in other countries. Even if these sites look professional, they do not have legal approval in Australia. The government also asks internet providers to block many of these sites, and banks often stop payments to them.
Are There Any Legal Online Casinos in 2026
There are no legal online casinos in Australia in 2026.
Any website that says it is legal for Australians to play casino games online for real money is not telling the truth. Only sports and race betting companies can legally offer online betting services in the country.
What Gambling Options Are Legal Online
Even though online casinos are banned, there are still safe and legal ways to gamble online in Australia.
Sports and Racing Betting
This is the main legal option for real-money betting.
Players can bet on horse racing, greyhound racing, and major sports like AFL, NRL, cricket, and football. Popular and trusted companies include TAB, Sportsbet, Ladbrokes, and Neds. These platforms follow strict rules and offer safe payment systems and player protection tools.
Social Casino Games
Social casinos let players enjoy slot-style games and table games using virtual coins instead of real money.
You cannot withdraw real cash from these games, but they are legal and easy to find on mobile app stores. Many players use them just for fun without any financial risk.
Land-Based Casinos and Pokies
For a real casino experience, players must visit physical locations.
Big casinos like Crown and The Star offer full gaming floors. Many pubs and clubs across Australia also have legal and regulated poker machines.
Lotteries and Keno
Australians can legally play official lottery games online through services like The Lott. Games like Powerball, Oz Lotto, and Keno remain popular and safe options.
Risks of Using Offshore Casino Sites
Using illegal casino websites can be risky.
There is no local support if a site refuses to pay your winnings. Your personal and payment details may not be protected properly. These sites also do not follow Australia’s self-exclusion system, which can make it harder for players to control their gambling habits.
Also Read: PlayStation Plus Free Games For February 2026: Full List And Game Details
