Is crypto betting legal in Australia?

The legality of crypto betting in Australia is complex and best described as a gray area, though recent legislation has significantly restricted its use. The Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (IGA) is the primary legislation governing online gambling, and it prohibits the offering of online casino games to Australian residents.

As of June 11, 2024, an amendment to the IGA came into force, making it a criminal offense for any interactive wagering service, whether based in Australia or offshore, to accept cryptocurrency payments. This effectively makes crypto betting with licensed and regulated providers illegal. However, the law does not explicitly criminalize the act of an individual using cryptocurrencies on an offshore gambling platform.

This creates a legal loophole where many Australians continue to access and use international crypto casinos, often via a VPN. These platforms are not regulated by Australian authorities, leaving users without consumer protection and at risk of fraud, data theft, and loss of funds.