Legal Guide
The Interactive Gambling Act Explained — What It Means for Online Pokies
What the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 covers, who it applies to, and what it means for people who play pokies online.
RollieBet96 Guide · 5 min read · Updated October 2026
What the Interactive Gambling Act Is
The Interactive Gambling Act 2001 is an Australian federal law that deals with gambling services provided over the internet and other communication channels to people in Australia. It has been updated several times since it was passed.
It does not ban gambling in general. It sets out which online gambling services may be offered to people in Australia and which may not, and it gives a federal regulator the power to enforce those rules.
Key Point
This guide is general information only, not legal advice. Laws can change, and state and territory rules also apply.
What Is Prohibited and What Is Not
| Service |
General position under the Act |
| Online casino games, including pokies, roulette and blackjack, played for money |
Prohibited. Providers may not offer them to people in Australia |
| In-play online sports betting |
Restricted online, with only limited channels such as telephone allowed |
| Online sports and racing betting with a licensed operator |
Allowed when the operator holds the required Australian licence |
| Online lotteries from licensed operators |
Allowed |
| Free-to-play games with no real-money prizes |
Generally not covered by the prohibition |
| Poker machines in licensed clubs, pubs and casinos |
Not covered by this Act. Each state and territory regulates them |
For a plain-English overview of the whole question, read our guide Are Online Pokies Legal in Australia?
Who the Act Applies To
The Act is aimed mainly at providers and advertisers, not at individual players. It makes it unlawful to provide a prohibited service to people in Australia, and it restricts advertising for those services.
That does not make unlicensed sites safe to use. A site that breaks the Act sits outside Australian regulation, so the protections that come with a licensed Australian operator are missing.
Remember
Whether something is an offence for a player can depend on your state or territory and your circumstances. If you need to know where you stand, ask a qualified lawyer.
Who Enforces It
The Act is enforced by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). Its powers include:
- Investigating complaints about prohibited gambling services and advertising.
- Issuing warnings and taking action in court, which can lead to penalties.
- Asking internet service providers to block access to illegal gambling websites.
- Publishing information about the services it has acted against.
You can read ACMA's own information at acma.gov.au.
What This Means for Players
If a gambling site operates outside the rules, players can face real problems:
- Limited protection. Australian consumer and gambling regulators may not be able to help with a dispute.
- Payment and withdrawal risk. Getting money back can be difficult if a site refuses or closes.
- Access can end suddenly. ACMA can ask providers to block a site at any time.
- No national self-exclusion. Tools like BetStop only cover licensed Australian wagering services.
Our guide Responsible Gambling Tools and Help in Australia explains the tools that do work, including blocking software and bank gambling blocks.
Interactive Gambling Act Explained FAQ
Is it illegal to play online pokies in Australia?
The Act is aimed at providers, who may not offer real-money online pokies to people in Australia. It focuses less on individual players, but unlicensed sites give you no Australian protections. Laws can change, so ask a qualified lawyer if you need advice for your situation.
What is ACMA?
ACMA is the Australian Communications and Media Authority. It enforces the Interactive Gambling Act, investigates complaints and can ask internet providers to block illegal gambling sites.
Can I play free pokies online?
Free-to-play games with no real-money prizes are generally not covered by the prohibition. Check each game’s terms, and note that age limits can still apply.
Are pokies in clubs and pubs legal?
Yes. Poker machines in licensed venues are regulated by each state and territory, not by the Interactive Gambling Act. Western Australia only allows them in its main casino.
Where can I get help if gambling is a problem?
Call the national gambling helpline on 1800 858 858 or visit
Gambling Help Online.
RollieBet96 Guide
Know the Rules Before You Play
Read our educational guides on pokies, RTP and responsible gambling. 18+ only.
Information may change. Check official sources for the latest details.
Gambling should always be entertainment
Set limits, take breaks, and never chase losses. If gambling is causing you harm, call the national gambling helpline on 1800 858 858 or visit Gambling Help Online.
This guide is general information only and is intended for readers aged 18 and over. It is not legal advice.