Legalization of additional forms of gambling (lotteries, bets)
* (under Future of Online Gambling in Australia) *
Context: Current Model
To date, Australia regulates online gambling through the Interactive Gambling Act (IGA) and the National Consumer Protection Framework (NCPF). Limited forms have been legalized - online and telephone sports betting, lotteries and official draws. At the same time, online casinos and some hybrid products remain outlawed. The issue of expanding the list of permitted forms is one of the key issues in the discussion about the future of the industry.
Potential new directions of legalization
1. Online lotteries
Translation of traditional state lotteries into a fully digital format.
Introduction of instant lotteries into the online space.
Integration with tourism and cultural events (e.g. lotteries linked to sporting events).
2. Extended sports betting
Admission to legal platforms of a wider range of bets in real time (in-play betting).
Creating hybrid products: combining betting with fantasy sports elements.
The development of "microbetting" (bets on individual game events: corner, yellow cards, points in the quarter).
3. Social and hybrid formats
Lotteries with NFT tickets and tokenized prizes.
Betting in metaverse and virtual sports arenas.
Partnership projects with the tourism industry, where draws and bets are included in the tourism package.
Economic effect
Tax revenue growth. Each new form of legalized gambling increases the transparency of turnover and expands the taxation base.
Startup support. Legalization opens up opportunities for B2B platforms that offer white-label solutions for lotteries and betting.
Regional development. Licensed online lotteries can direct some of the funds in support of sports, culture and infrastructure.
Regulatory challenges
Responsible play. The expansion of the assortment increases the risks of dependence, which requires increased limits, notifications and integration with BetStop.
KYC и AML. The new formats must follow the same identity verification and anti-laundering rules as existing services.
Advertising. Increasing the number of products will require strict restrictions on marketing, especially for young people.
Cross-border risks. With online access, foreign players can participate in Australian lotteries or betting, which will require international coordination.
Social context
Attracting new users. Lotteries and "easy bets" are considered less risky, which can expand the player base.
Image of the state. Legalization under a tight control system will allow Australia to position itself as a market where innovation runs parallel to responsibility.
Society resistance. Part of the population and politicians oppose expansion, fearing the growth of problem play and debt risks.
Trajectory 2025-2027
Pilot projects for the legalization of new generation online lotteries (with instant results and digital tickets).
Discussion about in-play betting legalization in full with strict limits.
Introduction of hybrid models: fantasy sports + betting, lotteries with digital assets.
Increasing regulatory burden: new standards for advertising, AML and data storage.
Bottom line:
- The legalisation of additional forms of gambling in Australia is a strategic move that could bring tax rises, digital industry development and new jobs. But success is possible only with tight control, consumer protection and innovation through licensed platforms. The balance between market expansion and responsible regulation will determine whether Australia becomes a leader in safe and technological online gambling.
