Optimal Wagers” Price Limited, an Australian firm, received a formal caution from the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) for operating an unauthorized internet gaming platform.
The company’s platform, which enabled users to contrast odds from licensed wagering providers and place bets on their behalf, was determined to be in breach of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (IGA). Although “Optimal Wagers” possessed licensing from pertinent state regulatory bodies, it lacked the requisite gambling license under the IGA to furnish interactive gambling services.
The ACMA underscored the significance of the licensing framework in guaranteeing consumer safeguards under relevant state and territory legislation, in addition to the IGA.
Subsequent to the caution, “Optimal Wagers” discontinued the provision of the service. This measure forms part of the ACMA’s continuous endeavors to uphold regulations and shield Australians from illicit online gaming, which is projected to cost the nation billions in foregone tax income each year.
In a bid to tackle unlawful overseas wagering, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has been taking a firm stance. They’ve partnered with internet providers to restrict access to an additional nine dubious platforms such as Winning Days, 21Bit Casino, and Lucky Elf Casino. This expands an already extensive roster, as the ACMA has already prohibited a massive 642 illicit gambling and related websites since 2017, when they were granted increased authority to uphold the law.
This clampdown exposes a concerning pattern: unlawful offshore wagering is depriving Australia of substantial tax income. A study by the Responsible Wagering Australia organization projects that the nation could lose out on a colossal $3 billion Australian dollars (equivalent to $1.9 billion US dollars!) between 2022 and 2027 due to these unregulated sites.