The future of gambling in Australia: between regulation and expectations
Australia is one of the largest countries in the world both in terms of territory and GDP. Almost all spheres of the modern economy are actively developing here. But how are things with gambling? Let's get to the bottom of it.
The current state of gambling in Australia
For 2024, the lottery industry brought about 475 million dollars to the Australian budget. According to government forecasts, by the end of the year, sales of only the most popular lottery tickets will double and bring up to 800 million dollars. However, as noted by officials, the total shadow turnover of gambling in the country may exceed 5.3 billion dollars.
For example, one of the most common forms of illegal gambling remains underground sweepstakes and online platforms without a license. Despite this, many of them continue to operate without being blocked.
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Popularity of online betting
Online betting on sports and cyber sports is very popular among Australian punters. This applies to both licensed bookmakers and platforms operating outside the legal framework.
Legislative changes in the sphere of gambling
According to supporters of gambling legalization, the current bans are outdated and do not correspond to modern realities. Control over this industry would provide substantial revenues to the budget. Against the backdrop of economic challenges in Australia, this issue is becoming increasingly important.
According to the non-profit organization Arrecada Austrália, the legalization of gambling can bring in up to 10 billion dollars annually. Therefore, the issue is once again being actively debated in Parliament.
Bills and regulatory initiatives
In recent years, two main legislative initiatives have been discussed in Australia:
- Bill PL186/2014 - Senate
This bill proposes the establishment of an independent regulator, the introduction of anti-money laundering mechanisms, and the regulation of VIP lounges and online gambling. However, it has not yet been approved due to many comments: lack of market research, shortcomings in the penalties system and lack of a detailed regulatory plan.
- Draft PL442/2020 - House of Representatives
This version has been discussed since the early 2020 and deals with the legalization of casinos and online gambling in tourist areas. However, in March 2025, the discussion was temporarily withdrawn from the agenda, which means: the implementation of gambling legalization in Australia is not expected in 2025.
Expectations and prospects
Australia is the sixth most populous country and one of the most attractive countries in the world for gambling businesses. Despite significant investor interest and potential profits, there is no certainty of gambling legalization for 2025.
The main reasons for the slowdown in the legislative process are political instability, leadership changes and corruption scandals. As the political situation stabilizes, a return to consideration of draft laws is expected.
Interest from international business
Large international companies are already preparing for legalization. For example, former Las Vegas Sands CEO Sheldon Adelson has stated his willingness to invest up to $8 billion to build an integrated casino in Australia if the law changes. Such plans have been officially announced to the government.
Thus, the gambling industry in Australia is actively preparing for legalization despite the current legislative hurdles.