ACMA Warns Offshore Gambling Operators for IGA Violations

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has taken enforcement action against three offshore gambling operators for providing prohibited and unlicensed interactive gambling services to Australian customers without proper authorization.

The regulatory body issued formal warnings to Curaçao-based operators Hollycorn and Dama, along with Union of Comoros-registered NovaForge, following investigations conducted between August and October 2025. All three operators were found to have breached provisions of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (IGA) by offering gambling services to individuals physically located in Australia without holding the required state or territory licences.

Hollycorn’s Rocketspin Platform Breaches IGA

Hollycorn received a formal warning dated 18 November 2025 after ACMA determined the operator contravened subsection 15(2A) of the IGA through its Rocketspin service. The investigation concluded that the platform offered casino-style games played for money and remained accessible to Australian customers via its website, despite lacking the necessary Australian licensing.

Dama Found in Breach Through Multiple Services

Dama received its warning on 7 November 2025 for breaches of subsections 15(2A) and 15AA(3) of the IGA. ACMA’s investigation identified that the operator’s Rooster Bet and Vegas Now services provided both casino-style games and betting products to Australian customers. The services included in-play wagering options, all offered without appropriate Australian licensing.

NovaForge’s CrownPlay Service Targeted

NovaForge received a formal warning dated 24 November 2025 after ACMA found its CrownPlay service provided unlicensed casino games and betting services to Australian customers. The investigation determined that NovaForge contravened the same IGA provisions as Dama, offering prohibited interactive gambling services without proper authorization.

Part of Broader Enforcement Strategy

The enforcement actions represent the latest phase of ACMA’s ongoing strategy to combat unlicensed offshore gambling operations targeting Australian consumers. The regulator employs a combination of formal warnings, website blocking measures, and consumer education initiatives to limit access to unlicensed gambling services.

ACMA’s approach aims to reduce the availability of offshore platforms that operate without Australian regulatory oversight and the consumer protections mandated under national gambling legislation. The regulator continues to investigate and take action against operators providing interactive gambling services to Australian customers without the required state or territory licences.

Under the Interactive Gambling Act 2001, it is an offense to provide interactive gambling services to customers in Australia without holding an appropriate licence issued by an Australian state or territory regulatory authority. The legislation prohibits offshore operators from offering online casino games and certain betting services to Australian residents.

Source: Australian Communications and Media Authority