"ACMA Targets Five Unlicensed Gambling Websites"

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has recently issued a new order to block five Internet Service Provider (ISP) domains. The regulator claims these websites have been operating without a license in Australia and targeting Australian customers in violation of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. ACMA considers website blocking its most effective tool against the offshore gambling market, having blocked 1,279 operator and affiliate websites since implementing this measure in November 2019. Nevertheless, thousands more are suspected of targeting the Australian market, as casinos can quickly establish mirror domains to continue their operations. Although Australia remains against expanding its online gambling sector, some neighboring countries have taken a different approach. For instance, New Zealand is currently working on legislation to permit up to 15 online casinos to operate in the country. Jarrod True, a legal expert in New Zealand gambling law, believes this move will significantly reduce the influence of the offshore gambling market in New Zealand.