Online Poker in Australia
Poker is a very popular game in Australia both in its video and table forms. The first is played in Pokies (slot machines) which are found in land-based casinos, but also in pubs and clubs. For a long time, it was the main type of poker for Australians, but eventually, the casino-style game began to attract their attention and can now be played across the several poker rooms the country has to offer. There is a big demand for Texas Hold’em in specific, and the game’s popularity in recent years is also due to online platforms, even though these are illegal.
| Is online poker legal in Australia? | No. |
| Are poker sites in Australia trustworthy? | Yes. |
| Can I deposit via PaySafeCard/Neteller/BPAY? | Yes. |
| Do online poker sites accept AUD? | Yes. |
Online Poker Laws in Australia
Although there are no specific Australian online poker laws, the amendments of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 from September 2017, prohibited table games such as poker to operate in the country. Consequently, no specialized online poker sites have been granted an Australian poker license for offering this game in the country. This came partially because gambling-related problems were increasing in the country, as reported by online poker news sites, especially when it came to video poker. It is said that one in six pokie player shows signs of addiction. However, these machines are still able to physically operate in Australia.
Moreover, offshore poker websites are freely accessed by Australians as the authorities don’t have legal jurisdiction over them. In fact, these platforms are targeting locals with special online poker bonuses and events, such as qualifiers for the Crown Australian Poker Championship - also known as Aussie Millions -, the biggest poker tournament in the South Hemisphere.
Online Poker Payment Methods in Australia
Operators want to provide players with safe and fair environments. This means that they only allow money transactions through transparent methods. Hence, the credit and debit options of VISA and MasterCard are fully accepted by most online poker sites. But there are other alternatives available such as Skrill, Neteller or PaySafeCard. And even though the offer is more limited, it is also possible to find websites accepting BPAY.
Online Poker Sites Accepting AUD
Due to poker’s popularity, international operators are interested in succeeding in the Australian market. This is why there are many online poker sites accepting AUD, allowing players to be exempt from paying conversion fees and to be able to control better their accounts.
