Australia’s stance on online gambling, particularly online casinos, remains stringent. The Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (IGA) prohibits the offering of online casino services to individuals within Australia, aiming to curb unregulated gambling activities.
Recent legislative amendments, including the Interactive Gambling Amendment (Credit and Other Measures) Act 2023, have further tightened regulations by banning the use of credit cards for online gambling transactions.
These measures reflect the government’s commitment to minimizing gambling-related harm and ensuring consumer protection. Here’s what you need to know about the current legal status of online casinos in Australia.
Are Online Casinos Legal in Australia?
Online gambling in Australia is tightly regulated under the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (IGA). This law bans certain types of online gambling, including online casinos and poker, making them illegal for Australian residents.
However, sports betting and lotteries are allowed – as long as they’re offered by licensed operators. So, while you can legally place a bet on your favorite sports team, playing online blackjack or poker for real money remains off-limits under Australian law.
| Gambling Activity | Legal Status |
| Online Casino Games | Illegal |
| Online Poker | Illegal |
| Online Sports Betting | Legal |
| Online Lotteries | Legal |
The History of Online Gambling Laws in Australia
There have been several key legislative changes over the years that have influenced Australia’s approach to regulating online gambling.
Early Developments in Online Gambling (1990s)
In the mid-1990s, Australia emerged as a pioneer in the online gambling industry. In 1996, Centrebet, based in the Northern Territory, became the first licensed online sports betting operator in the country. This period marked the beginning of internet-based wagering services available to Australian residents.
Enactment of the Interactive Gambling Act (2001)
Recognizing the rapid rise of online gambling, Australia introduced the Interactive Gambling Act (IGA) in 2001, banning online casinos and poker while allowing licensed operators to offer pre-event sports betting and lotteries.
Recent Legislative Amendments and Regulatory Enhancements (2023-2024)
In response to evolving challenges, the Australian government has continued to refine its online gambling laws. In 2023, the Interactive Gambling Amendment (Credit and Other Measures) Act was enacted, banning the use of credit cards for online gambling transactions to promote responsible gambling practices.
Additionally, in 2024, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) introduced “BetStop,” a national self-exclusion register allowing individuals to exclude themselves from all licensed online and phone wagering services.
The Market Potential of Online Gambling in Australia
Australia’s online gambling market has experienced significant growth, with revenues increasing from USD 5.2 billion in 2024 to a projected USD 8.9 billion by 2033, reflecting a CAGR of 5.88%. However, this number could be significantly higher if Australia regulated online casinos instead of pushing players to offshore platforms.
By banning online casinos, the government loses out on potential tax revenue, while unlicensed sites continue to profit from Australian players. These offshore operators don’t contribute to the economy and lack consumer protections, putting players at greater risk.
If Australia allowed and regulated online casinos, it could bring in more tax revenue, offer better protections for players, and ensure gambling profits benefit public services.
The Key Players Behind Australia’s Online Gambling Regulations
In Australia, several key groups influence online gambling laws, including government regulators, lawmakers, betting operators, and advocacy organizations.
Government Bodies and Regulators
The Australian federal government, in collaboration with state and territory authorities, oversees gambling regulations. The Department of Social Services leads the national agenda on online gambling harm minimization, implementing initiatives like BetStop – the National Self-Exclusion Register.
Legislators and Advocacy Groups
Lawmakers at both federal and state levels play pivotal roles in shaping gambling policies. For instance, in South Australia, Independent MLC Frank Pangallo introduced legislation aimed at preventing betting companies from banning successful punters, highlighting concerns over fair play and consumer rights.
Sports Organizations and Betting Operators
Major sports leagues, like the Australian Football League (AFL), play a big role in gambling regulations through their partnerships with betting companies. The AFL’s recent push to take a bigger share of gambling revenue has led to legal disputes with bookmakers.
Media and Public Figures
Media outlets and prominent individuals also shape public discourse on gambling. Former Prime Ministers John Howard and Malcolm Turnbull have publicly supported calls for a comprehensive ban on gambling advertisements, reflecting growing concern over the normalization of gambling in Australian culture.
Responsible Gambling
Engaging in online gambling carries inherent risks, including financial losses and the potential for addiction. It’s crucial to approach gambling with caution and awareness. To support individuals, Australia offers several resources:
- Gambling Help Online: Provides free, confidential support 24/7. Access online counseling and information at gamblinghelponline.org.au or call 1800 858 858.
- Gambler’s Help: Offers counseling and support services across Victoria. Visit gamblershelp.com.au for more information.
- BetStop: Australia’s National Self-Exclusion Register allows individuals to exclude themselves from all licensed online and phone wagering services. Learn more at infrastructure.gov.au.
What’s Next for Online Gambling in Australia?
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has recently blocked additional illegal gambling websites, reinforcing the government’s commitment to enforcing the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.
Moreover, legislative amendments have granted regulatory bodies greater authority to issue directives to casinos and enforce compliance, with increased penalties for non-compliance.
These developments indicate a continued focus on consumer protection and the mitigation of gambling-related harm in Australia’s evolving online gambling scene.
What makes an Australian online casino worth your time and money? Fast payouts, generous bonuses, and flawless mobile gaming are just the start.
The best online casinos in Australia for real money tick all these boxes, with Neospin narrowly taking the lead.
Let’s have a look!
Best Online Casinos in Australia
- Neospin: Best overall
- SkyCrown: 10-minute payout processing
- Casinonic: 5,000+ online pokie games
- Kingmaker: Over 100 live dealer casino games
- MrPacho: Top mobile app and site experience
- Lunubet: Best game tournaments
- Casino Infinity: Excellent cashback offers
- Ricky Casino: Lots of classic pokie games
- A Big Candy: Large welcome offer deposit match
- Lucky7even: High-quality crash and table games
Fast payouts, epic bonuses, and thousands of games – these 10 Australian casino sites have it all. Each one shines in its own way, so why not explore what makes them stand out? Read on for the full breakdown.
1. Neospin – Best Real Money Online Casino in Australia Overall
Pros:
- Up to $10,000 for the welcome offer
- Additional 100 free spins for new players
- Over 100 live casino games
- $1,000 weekly reload offer available
- Well-designed, downloadable desktop app
Cons:
- Some fiat options take longer to pay out
- Dark design might not appeal to everyone
Neospin is the best real money online casino in Australia, thanks to its amazing bonus, game library, and host of other features.
Casino Game Selection: 4.9/5
The best Aussie online casino offers an impressive selection of over 5,800 online casino games, far exceeding the average in Australia. These games stand out not just in quantity but also in quality, thanks to contributions from leading providers like Playson and BGaming.
You’ll find some of the best online pokies in the world here, and a few of our favourites are Wolf Treasure and 3 Hot Chillies.
We were also impressed by the hundreds of live casino games. These include roulette and blackjack variations, poker, baccarat, and quite a few game shows.
Bonus Offers & Promotions: 4.9/5
The welcome bonus at the best Australian casino site is a very impressive 100% up to $10,000 deposit match and 100 free pokie game spins. You can claim it by depositing at least $45 and using a promo code NEO100.
Neospin also offers players a handful of reload bonuses, including up to 20% daily cashback and a 66% deposit match of up to $1,000 on weekends.
Payout Speed & User Experience: 4.9/5
There are more than 20 payment methods to deposit with at Neospin, including eWallets, cryptocurrencies, and cards. Many of these can also be used to withdraw instantly.
There’s a neat desktop app and mobile site available. The design is a bit darker, which might not be ideal for every user, but the site runs smoothly on all screen sizes.
>> Sign up to get $10,000 and 100 spins [Neospin] <<
2. SkyCrown – Top AU Online Casino With the Fastest Real Money Payouts
Pros:
- 10-minute average payout processing
- More than 9,000 casino games
- Dozens of ways to pay, including crypto and e-wallets
- Features all the best crash game options
- $8,000 and 400 FS welcome offer
Cons:
- VIP program not as generous as some others
- Could offer more information in the help section
Your payouts will be processed in an average of 10 minutes, and you can use many different banking methods at SkyCrown.
Casino Game Selection: 4.7/5
SkyCrown has an impressive game selection, with over 9,000 titles – significantly more than most online gambling sites in Australia.
The majority of the collection consists of pokies. While some titles come from less familiar providers, there’s no shortage of high-quality options. For instance, you’ll find games from Booongo and Playson that offer good variety and high RTPs.
The live casino section is equally diverse, featuring dozens of games, including unique titles like Tortuga Fortune and Top Card.
Bonus Offers & Promotions: 5/5
SkyCrown has recently boosted its welcome bonus to an impressive $8,000, along with 400 free spins, making it one of the largest offers available in Australia.
But the offers don’t stop there. Players can also enjoy up to 10% weekly cashback, a rewarding loyalty program, and a variety of ongoing promotions designed for all types of players.
Payout Speed & User Experience: 4.9/5
This Aussie online casino with an average payout time of just 10 minutes, putting it among the fastest in the industry. If you’re using cryptocurrency, your funds are typically available shortly after this quick processing window.
This online Australian casino also offers plenty of payment options, supporting over 20 deposit methods, most of which can also be used for withdrawals. These include over 10 cryptocurrencies, popular eWallets like Neteller and Skrill, and traditional card payments.
SkyCrown’s user-friendly design makes the overall experience even better. Its modern layout complements the site’s cutting-edge approach to banking and payments.
>> Grab the $8,000 and 400 free spins [SkyCrown] <<
3. Casinonic – Best AUS Online Casino Pokies Site
Pros:
- Well over 3,000 pokie game options
- Wide range of ongoing promotions for players
- Hundreds of different pokie game themes
- $1,000,000s in progressive jackpots to be won
- Wide range of eWallets and mobile payments
Cons:
- Website feels a little glitchy in parts
- Not the best mobile compatibility
Australians love their pokies, so we set out to find the best site for them – and that’s Casinonic.
Casino Game Selection: 4.8/5
With over 1,500 online pokies available, the selection here is truly impressive. No matter what your preferences are, you’ll surely find a pokie game you love here.
These aren’t just fillers, either. Most pokies here are high-quality, featuring unique themes, exciting prize levels, and creative bonus rounds.
This Australia online casino also offers plenty beyond pokies, including live blackjack, video poker, and crash games, making it a great all-around choice for players.
Bonus Offers & Promotions: 4.8/5
Casinonic welcomes new players with up to $7,500 in matched deposit bonus funds, plus free spins on a popular pokie game.
Once you’ve made the most of the welcome bonus, there are plenty of ongoing promotions to enjoy. Keep an eye out for reload offers like the 100% deposit match on Tuesdays, free spins on Wednesdays, and more.
Payout Speed & User Experience: 4.8/5
This online casino in Australia features a sci-fi theme that’s sure to catch the eye of many players. The homepage graphics are well-designed, and the games are organised in an intuitive layout for easy navigation.
While the visuals are impressive, the site can occasionally be a bit glitchy. Additionally, a few games are missing from the mobile version. Given the overall selection, this isn’t a major issue, but it’s an area that could use some improvement.
On the payment side, Casinonic is great, offering a wide range of deposit options, including multiple cryptocurrencies and eWallets, along with fast payout processing.
>> Get your $7,500 welcome offer [Casinonic] <<
4. Kingmaker – Best Australian Online Real Money Casino for Live Dealer Games
Pros:
- Over 100 live casino games in total
- Around 20 payment method options
- 98%+ RTP live dealer games
- Demo mode available for most games
- 25% cashback for live dealer titles
Cons:
- Lower max deposit on the welcome offer
- Some sub-par pokies games
Kingmaker is the go-to site for players who enjoy casino games with real-life dealers.
Casino Game Selection: 4.7/5
The live casino selection here is impressive, with over 100 high-quality options available for Australian players. Many of these games are powered by Evolution Gaming, widely regarded as the best live casino software provider in the industry.
The quality of Evolution’s offerings at Kingmaker is outstanding. The gameplay is top-tier, and RTPs often exceed 98%, giving players a better chance to maintain their bankroll compared to most other casino games.
Beyond the live dealer experience, Kingmaker also offers a solid selection of other games. While the pokies and similar options may not have the same level of polish as the live games, there are still thousands of quality titles worth exploring.
Bonus Offers & Promotions: 4.6/5
New players at this online casino in Australia can double their first deposit with a 100% match up to $2,000, plus 50 free chances to win $1 million.
This AU online casino keeps things exciting with ongoing promotions, including a live cashback offer that returns up to 25% on losses (up to $300) with just a 1x wagering requirement. It’s a perfect choice for live dealer fans, solidifying Kingmaker as Australia’s top live dealer casino site.
Payout Speed & User Experience: 4.8/5
Kingmaker is a relatively new casino, and its modern approach shines through in its visual design. The sleek purple colour scheme is eye-catching, and the site is generally intuitive to navigate, though the menu bar could benefit from a few additional options.
The casino offers 16 deposit methods, split almost evenly between cryptocurrencies and fiat options. Crypto choices include Bitcoin Cash, USD Coin, and Litecoin, while fiat options feature Cash2Code, Skrill, and MiFinity. Many of these methods also support near-instant payouts.
>> Enjoy up to $2,000 welcome offer [Kingmaker] <<
5. MrPacho – Best Online Australian Casino for Real Money Table Games
Pros:
- 220+ table games
- Great mobile compatibility
- Enjoyable desktop app to use
- Over 4,000 online casino games
- 200 free spins with the welcome offer
Cons:
- Playful design might not appeal to everyone
- Not a strong selection of live games
If you’re a fan of table games, MrPacho stands out among Australian casino sites as the top choice for variety and quality.
Casino Game Selection: 4.7/5
MrPacho offers over 220 table games, including a wide range of blackjack, roulette, poker, baccarat, and even sic bo variants. There are classic versions as well as those with modern twists.
In addition to its strong table game lineup, MrPacho hosts over 4,000 games, including high-quality slots from providers like Novomatic and Pragmatic Play. Players can also enjoy free demos to test games before playing for real money.
Bonus Offers & Promotions: 4.7/5
There are two parts to the MrPacho welcome bonus: a 100% up to $750 deposit match and 200 free spins. That’s not a bad package to receive when you sign up for a new account.
You can get 100 free spins every Sunday here, plus up to 15% cashback once per week. If we were being picky, we might have liked to have seen an actual deposit match reload offer.
Payout Speed & User Experience: 4.8/5
The site is backed by highly responsive customer support. When we tested the live chat, we were typically connected to an agent within seconds, so there’s quick assistance when needed.
On the payment side, there are around 15 options available. The fastest way to receive your funds is playing at crypto online casinos, while methods like bank transfers may take a bit longer.
>> Grab a $750 offer and 200 FS [MrPacho] <<
Best Online Casinos for Real Money in Australia – Quick Comparison
Real Money Casino Games
A casino is only as good as the games it offers – that’s our mantra. Naturally, the first thing we evaluate at the top Australian online casinos is their game library. We look at the total number of games, the variety of game types, and, most importantly, the titles’ quality.
Bonus Offers & Promotions
Next, we evaluate each casino’s bonus offerings. The welcome bonus is usually the highlight, so it’s the first thing we assess. However, we also give extra credit to sites with a strong lineup of reload bonuses and a rewarding loyalty program.
Payout Speed
We always want to know that we’ll be able to get our winnings back quickly from top Australian online casinos. That’s why payout processing speed is key. So, too, is the choice of fast payout banking options. Crypto methods are excellent to see, but eWallets can go a long way too.
Site Design
It’s important for us to be able to navigate a site easily from the moment we first open it. This leaves us more time to get to the fun part and play some games. It certainly also helps if each site is visually interesting.
Mobile Compatibility
Nowadays, most games should be available to play on mobile. Mobile compatibility is better on average than ever, but some top Australian online casinos are still better than others. We’ve been vetting out top Australian online casinos that have poor mobile compatibility.
We used similar criteria to rank the best betting sites in Australia.
Why Is Neospin the Best of All the Top Australian Online Casinos?
Neospin is the best online casino Australia has to offer. Take a look below to find out the key reasons why.
- The best casino bonus: We can’t find another online casino offering as much bonus cash as the $10,000 for new players at Neospin.
- Game variety: With over 5,800 options, Neospin is offering online casino games across nearly every category, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
- Responsive help: Reaching a knowledgeable support agent in the Neospin live chat never takes more than a minute or two.
- Mobile gaming: Most of Neospin’s games can be played on a very neat and easy-to-use mobile site.
Are Best Aussie Online Casinos or Land-Based Casinos Better?
Gambling at a brick-and-mortar casino can be a great experience. While the social aspect is missing online, the overall experience is much better. Let’s recap why.
Remote gaming: If you have a smartphone and an internet connection, you can play online casino games online on the go.
Better offers: The amount of bonus cash, free spins, etc., you can get from the best Aussie online casinos dwarfs any brick-and-mortar casino offerings.
No queues: You’ll never have to worry about the hustle and bustle of land-based casinos or wait to go to your favourite game if you play online.
24/7 access: Another thing you won’t have to worry about at online casinos is closing times!
Best Online Casinos Australia Real Money – FAQs
Which Australian Online Casino Game Pays Out the Best?
Neospin offers the best payouts among Australian online casinos, thanks to its high average game RTP and great bonus offers.
Are Australian Real Money Online Casinos Safe?
Yes, the top online casinos we recommend are licensed and reliable, with solid customer support. Most Australian online casino sites follow similar safety measures, but it’s always smart to double-check.
Which Real Money Online Casino in Australia Pays Out the Fastest?
SkyCrown leads with an average payout time of just 10 minutes, making it the fastest among top Aussie casino sites.
How Do I Sign Up for an Australian Online Casino?
Signing up is simple. Visit the casino’s homepage, fill out the registration form, and verify your identity – it’s that easy!
What are the Best Real Money Online Casinos in Australia?
The best online casino sites in Australia include Neospin, SkyCrown, and Casinonic, followed closely by Kingmaker and MrPacho.
Can I Get Bonuses at Online Casinos in Australia?
Absolutely! Top Australian online casinos offer plenty of bonuses, with welcome offers and ongoing promotions being the most popular.
5 Best Australian Online Casino Sites – Quick Comparison
Neospin: At the top of our list, Neospin offers a massive welcome bonus of 100% up to $10,000 and 100 free spins when you use the code NEO100. Plus, enjoy additional perks like daily cashback and weekend reload offers.
SkyCrown: Known for its lightning-fast payouts averaging 10 minutes, SkyCrown offers new players up to $8,000 and 400 free spins. It’s a great choice for those who value speed and variety in real money games.
Casinonic: Perfect for pokie fans, Casinonic welcomes players with up to $7,500 in matched deposit bonuses. There are also reload bonuses on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, that include deposit matches and free spins.
Kingmaker: The best pick for live dealer fans, Kingmaker matches your first deposit 100% up to $2,000 and throws in 50 free spins for a chance to win $1 million. Ongoing live game cashback lets you keep the action going.
MrPacho: Ideal for table game lovers, MrPacho offers a 100% deposit match up to $750 and 200 free spins as part of its welcome package. Weekly cashback and Sunday free spins add even more value.
How to Sign Up for the Best Online Casino Sites in Australia
Ready to get started at one of the top real money casinos in Australia? Here’s how to sign up for the best place to play casino games down under.
Step 1: Choose an Australia Online Casino
- Review our top picks for Australian online casinos
- Consider your preferences when choosing
- Head over to Neospin’s homepage to begin the sign-up process
Step 2: Create Your Login
- Locate the registration form on the Neospin homepage
- Fill out the required details, including your email and name
- Create a secure password for future logins
- Accept the terms and conditions, then submit the form
Step 3: Verify Your Details
- Check your email inbox for a confirmation message
- Click the verification link to confirm your email address
- If using fiat payments, you may need to verify your ID
- For crypto payments, link your digital wallet
Step 4: Place a Deposit
- Head to the Cashier section of your account
- Select your preferred payment method
- Enter the deposit amount
- Follow the instructions to complete the transaction
Step 5: Play Casino Games Online for Real Money
- Browse Neospin’s game library
- Start playing your favourite pokies, table games, or live dealer games
- Enjoy playing for real money in Australia
Expert Tips & Tricks for Australian Players
Play Some Free Casino Games
You can try out many real money casino games in free play mode before committing to the real money experience. Many popular online casino games are available directly from their manufacturers in demo mode.
Consider Compatibility at Mobile Casinos
If you prefer gaming on the go, make sure your chosen casino works well on smartphones and tablets. Our top picks offer great mobile compatibility so that you can play your favourite games anywhere.
Make Use of All the Welcome Offers
Most online casinos in Australia, including all of those in our top picks list, offer new players bonus offers. These can include free spins, matched deposits, and more. We can use these to boost our bankrolls while shopping for a new site to play at regularly.
Stick to Reputable Online Casinos
We’ve validated all of our top picks to ensure they’re as safe for players as possible. If you want to sign up for any new online casinos in Australia, however, we recommend that you conduct your own research.
Never Forget Responsible Gambling
Always gamble responsibly at the best Aussie online casinos by setting deposit limits and taking regular breaks. These tools help you manage your time and spending effectively so you can have a safe and enjoyable gaming experience.
So, What Are the Best Aussie Real Money Casinos Online?
With so many fantastic online casinos in Australia offering online casino games with high RTPs, generous bonuses, and fast payouts, the hardest part is choosing where to start.
While Neospin tops our list for its unbeatable welcome bonus and game variety, SkyCrown’s lightning-fast payouts or Casinonic’s incredible pokie selection might fit your gaming style perfectly.
Take your time, explore the top picks, and make the most of their welcome offers.
Just remember to play responsibly and enjoy the experience. Good luck and happy gaming!
DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is for entertainment purposes only. Online gambling is risky and there’s no guarantee of financial gain.
Needless to say, gambling can be addictive. If you or anyone you know suffers from a gambling addiction problem, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1800 858 858 to speak with a professional who can help. All gambling sites listed are only for people who are 18+. Check your local laws to find out if online gambling is legal in your area.
For free online gambling addiction resources, visit these organizations:
