Are Online Pokies Legal in Australia? If you're a gambling enthusiast residing in Australia, you may have wondered about the legality of online pokies. The answer to that question isn't as straightforward as one might hope. The legal status of online pokies in Australia is a topic that has been widely debated. In 2001, the Australian government passed the Interactive Gambling Act (IGA), which made it illegal for online casinos to offer real money gambling services to Australian residents. However, the law does not specifically address online pokies, leaving some room for interpretation. While it is illegal for Australian online casinos to offer their services to local players, it is not illegal for Australian residents to play at offshore online casinos. Many offshore online casinos cater to the Australian market and offer a wide variety of online pokies for players to enjoy. The Australian government has tried to crack down on offshore online casinos by implementing stricter regulations and blocking access to certain offshore gambling sites. Despite these efforts, many offshore online casinos continue to operate and accept Australian players. It's important to note that playing at offshore online casinos does come with certain risks. As these casinos are not regulated by the Australian government, there is a chance that players may encounter unscrupulous operators. Therefore, it is crucial to do thorough research and only play at reputable and licensed online casinos. In recent years, there have been discussions about potential changes to Australia's online gambling laws. Some lawmakers have proposed legalizing and regulating online casinos to ensure player protection and generate tax revenue. However, no concrete legislative changes have been made thus far. In conclusion, the legality of online pokies in Australia is a bit of a grey area. While it is illegal for Australian online casinos to offer their services to local players, Australian residents are not prohibited from playing at offshore online casinos. However, it is essential to exercise caution and choose reputable online casinos to ensure a safe and enjoyable gambling experience.