A new report from the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) uncovered a worrying pattern: over one in ten Australians have wagered online within the last six months. This marks a considerable increase from 2020, as the proportion of internet gamblers climbed from 8% to 11%. These statistics, taken from the “Australians Online Gambling” poll conducted in June 2021, underscore the escalating occurrence of internet wagering nationwide.
The poll also showed a surge in athletics and racing wagers, with 8% of Australians participating in these activities compared to 5% in 2020. The ACMA initiated this research to specifically comprehend how the COVID-19 outbreak has affected internet gambling behaviors. Their discoveries were stark: a substantial segment of gamblers, 16% to be precise, confessed to boosting their gambling regularity since the pandemic’s start.
Further intensifying the issue, the ACMA also released a desktop analysis that investigated affiliate marketing tactics employed to advertise internet gambling. The analysis discovered that these tactics often receive substantially larger payments compared to other sectors, raising apprehensions about possible manipulation. Moreover, the investigation emphasized how social media networks and streaming platforms like Twitch are becoming progressively prevalent instruments for wagering businesses to reach potential clients.
Reacting to these troubling tendencies, the ACMA released a declaration stressing its dedication to safeguarding Australians from the risks linked to internet gambling.
Back in 2017, the Australian government initiated a significant clampdown on illicit internet gambling platforms operating outside their jurisdiction. These businesses were prohibited from providing or promoting services such as online casino entertainment to Australian citizens. This action was implemented as part of a revision to the existing Interactive Gambling Act. In the ensuing period, the government has successfully blocked access to a substantial number of questionable gambling websites and associated affiliate marketing platforms.
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