Although there are no locally licensed sites in the country, the best online casinos for real money in Australia are based offshore. We found that the best sites for Aussie players all offer rewarding pokies like Sweet Bonanza, table games with RTPs of 99%, mobile access, and much more to create the ultimate gaming experience.
So, if you’re interested in learning more about what to expect when gambling online in Australia, you’re in the right place.
Getting started at an Australian online casino is incredibly simple and takes just a few minutes. Not every casino has precisely the same process, but most are similar. Below, we’ve provided a simple step-by-step guide to the typical sign-up procedure at an online casino.
Choose and Visit a Site
Pick a site and make sure you choose a legitimate online casino with a license. Visit the site and click the “Join” or “Register” button, usually prominently displayed at the top of the screen.
Create an Account
Next, you must create your account by completing an online form with some details, typically your name, email address, address and mobile number. You will also usually need to create a username and password.
Deposit Funds into Your Account
To fund your account, visit the “Cashier” or “Wallet” section of your account. Click on deposit, choose your preferred payment method, and follow the instructions on-screen.
Play the Best Online Games
Start playing your favourite Australian casino games for real money when the funds appear in your online gaming account.
Key Takeaways
Navigating the world of online casinos in Australia can be be a bit overwhelming with so much information to know, but some facts are more important than others. Here are the key takeaways about the state of online casino gaming in Australia.
There are no domestic online casinos in Australia, as they are prohibited under the Interactive Gambling Act of 2001.
Offshore online casinos, which are not based in Australia, but accept players from the country, offer thousands of real money casino games, including pokies, table games, provably fair games, and live dealer games. These can still be accessed by Australian players.
Offshore casinos often provide generous welcome bonuses worth thousands of dollars to attract new players, along with ongoing promotions for existing members.
Winnings from any form of gambling, whether online or in-person, are tax-free in Australia unless you are considered a professional gambler.
Online casinos accept a variety of payment methods, including cryptocurrencies, debit cards, and e-wallets. However, a nationwide ban on using credit cards for online gambling took effect in 2024.
Online Casinos for Real Money vs Social Casinos
Although running a domestic-based real-money casino in Australia is not allowed, companies are permitted under the law to operate social casinos. But what’s the difference between the two?
A social casino looks almost identical to a normal online casino. You can play all the classic casino games including pokies, blackjack, roulette, and other table games. The main difference is you cannot win real money at a social casino. Social casinos are “free” to play; users play for fun and do not win money.
While social casinos are often advertised as “free,” this is not always completely accurate. While you do indeed receive some free virtual currency when you first sign up, many sites offer in-app purchases that allow you to purchase in-game currency.
In addition to social casinos, there are also sweepstakes casinos. These, like social casinos, offer no games to win real money. However, although winning money directly from these sites isn’t possible, getting real, tangible prizes is. These sites reward premium points (sweep tokens) that can then be exchanged for prizes such as free holiday stays or meals.
Most Popular Australian Online Casino Games
You have a wide range of options when playing at the best online casinos for real cash in Australia. You can play the thrilling games listed below once you register an account with one of the recommended offshore casinos.
Online Pokies
Online Pokies
Australian players have access to a huge selection of pokies at every offshore online casino. The best Australian casinos offer thousands of different pokie games, many more than you’ll find in Sydney or your local TAB.
Online pokies in Australia let you place any size real money wager you desire, unlike genuine slot machines that are sometimes restricted in the size of the wagers you can place on them. In addition, online slots and pokies commonly let you employ the auto-spin feature if you don’t want to press the button repeatedly.
Pokies are available online in both fixed jackpot and progressive jackpot variations. You can win money that might completely alter your life after a single spin on the progressive slots.
Roulette
Roulette
Most offshore casinos in Australia let you play two types of roulette games: American and European roulette. The primary difference between the two types is the quantity of zeroes on each wheel. American wheels have two zeros, while European wheels have just one, which means that European roulette has a higher RTP.
If you play at a top real money casino in Australia, you’ll find that they feature much more than just two types of roulette games. There are many variants like lightning roulette, double ball, slingshot, etc. These variants use the game’s standard rules but have slight variations or twists on the classic game.
Blackjack
Blackjack
If an offshore casino offers any kind of table games, blackjack will undoubtedly be the game that is featured first and foremost on the list due to its popularity with gamblers. Blackjack also provides diverse gaming options with over 10 different variants available, including blackjack switch, single deck blackjack, and others.
Every online casino offers standard blackjack. However, there are many different types of blackjack games. Thankfully, every blackjack game you play online comes with detailed instructions that will make it easier for you to understand how to play.
Baccarat
Baccarat
Baccarat is a simple game where players bet on whether the banker’s or the player’s hand will be closest to nine. Alternatively, you can bet on them tying. You will find various baccarat options when you play at a top real money casino in Australia.
Poker
Poker
The best online casinos in Australia for real money offer a selection of poker games because poker is one of the most played casino games in the world. To win at poker, you need to have the greatest hand or be able to pull off an effective bluff.
Craps
Craps
Craps will be available at a significant number of Australia casino sites. Unlike many other table games, most casinos offer just the traditional craps games, but they may feature a few different tables with different betting limits. Although this dice game is pretty easy to grasp, we advise first playing a few rounds in demo mode to get to grips with the rules if you are new to the game.
Specialty Games: Keno, Bingo & Other
Specialty Games: Keno, Bingo & Other
This category typically has a variety of unique and captivating games. Scratch cards, bingo, Keno, and various dice games are all covered in these categories. Choose “Specialty Games” if you’re looking for a fast change of pace.
Live Casino Games
Live Casino Games
Live dealer games allow casinos in Australia to replicate the thrill of Sydney, Melbourne, or Las Vegas. To replicate being on a casino floor in Las Vegas, you can engage in live dealer games online as well as converse with a trained dealer via video chat. You can text chat with the dealer and hear what they have to say.
Poker, blackjack, roulette, and baccarat are just a few of the thrilling live dealer table games that are available at the majority of our top casino sites. Additionally, game shows with live dealers like Mega Ball, Deal or No Deal, Dream Catcher, and Monopoly are popular titles available at many online casinos.
Do Australian Casinos Impose Betting Limits?
Every game at an Australian online casino has a maximum betting limit. This is the most you can bet on each spin of the pokie or roulette wheel. VIP tables will have higher limits than regular games. However, you can see the betting limits per game displayed in the lobby.
For example, many pokies will have around $100-$500 upper spin limits. For high-limit roulette or blackjack games, betting limits can be $5,000 or even higher. Live dealer games tend to have some of the highest play limits in the online casino.
Responsible gambling is essential to all reputable real-money casinos in Australia. You should be able to set deposit limits and restrict your playing time if you want to. You can read about the casino’s limit tools on its responsible gambling pages. Plus, you can set limits on your personal account page.
Types of Bonuses and Promotions
One of the reasons players prefer to gamble on Australian casino sites rather than at land-based casinos is because there are so many opportunities to get rewarded.
New members will often have the chance to double or even triple their money when they make their first deposit whereas existing players get to look forward to several ongoing promotions such as reload bonuses and free spins.
To show you what you can expect to find at our top-rated sites, we’ve provided a little more information about the different types of bonuses and promos below.
Welcome Bonus
Welcome Bonus
Welcome bonuses are specifically for new members to casinos. These are almost always matched deposits, where the casino matches a set percentage of your initial deposit (sometimes, a site may even match a percentage of your first few deposits).
The percentage match depends on the casino. 100-200% is the industry standard, but some sites can be even higher. When assessing a welcome bonus, consider the percentage match, maximum amount, and, most importantly, the wagering requirement. A bigger percentage match doesn’t always mean a better bonus.
Realods
Reloads
Like welcome bonuses, reloads are a deposit match but are for existing customers. Reloads are not usually as high a match as welcome bonuses and generally fall in the 10-50% region.
They will also have a wagering requirement attached, which is also usually lower than the standard welcome bonus wagering requirements.
Cashback
Cashback
Cashbacks, also known as rebates, are when an online Australian casino refunds a certain percentage of a player’s net losses over a set period of time (usually a week or month). Cashback amounts vary greatly among casinos, ranging from 1-25%.
The amount is also often determined by your level in the casino’s VIP or loyalty program and as you move up levels, the cashback percentage amount increases.
No Deposit Bonus
No Deposit Bonus
No-deposit bonuses allow players to receive bonus cash without having to deposit any money into their online Australian casino account. They are often offered to new customers to allow them to try out their games and offer risk-free service.
These bonuses are generally relatively small, ranging from $5-$50. Any winnings you make from bets placed with these bonuses usually have a wagering requirement before you can withdraw, and most casinos set a maximum win limit, so if you happen to hit a jackpot of hundreds of thousands of dollars, you would only receive whatever the maximum win limit of the bonus is.
Free Spins
Free Spins
If pokies are your preferred game at an online casino in Australia for real money, then free spins are the perfect bonus for you. These allow you to spin the reels on pokies for free. They are typically awarded as part of a welcome package or as a deposit bonus for existing players.
While you get to keep any winnings from the free spins, wagering requirements are usually required for these winnings before you can cash out. Most free spin offers are limited to one or a few specific games, so make sure to check which games you can use them on.
VIP Rewards
VIP Rewards
Most of the best online casinos in Australia for real money offer some kind of VIP or loyalty rewards program. Members are usually automatically entered at the lowest tier when they first sign up and move up levels based on deposit amounts, total bet amounts or a combination of both.
There are usually several perks and bonuses offered to members, which get better the higher level you are in. These programs’ bonuses include cashback, reloads, free spins and cash bonuses. Other perks can include increased banking limits, special customer support with a personal account manager and even faster withdrawals.
What are Wagering Requirements for Bonuses?
Stipulations such as the number of times you must play through a bonus so you can withdraw any winnings or the period of time you have to do so are known as the wagering requirement.
Some of the casino games have stakes that do not fully contribute toward the wagering requirement. Carefully review the terms and conditions before you play.
From the moment you accept a bonus, you need to start meeting the wagering requirements. You must satisfy the wagering requirements for the relevant bonus in order to release any winnings.
Payment Methods at Online Casinos in Australia
Every Australian online casino makes it easy to make deposits and withdrawals. Our selected AU casino sites accept a variety of Australian-friendly payment options to guarantee all transactions are secure. Below are some general details on the four most popular payment methods you’ll find a typical casino online in Australia.
Credit and Debit Cards
Credit and Debit Cards
Most online casinos still accept major credit and debit cards, like Visa and Mastercard. However, in June 2024, Australia passed a law that made it illegal for gambling companies to accept payments from credit cards expressly (debit cards are still permitted). While some sites based offshore still accept credit cards, you’ll probably see fewer sites supporting credit card payments.
If you use a debit or credit card for a deposit, it is usually instant. If a site supports card withdrawals, they typically take 1-3 days to process. The limit on card payments at your typical casino online in Australia is $20-2,500.
PayID
PayID
With PayID, you link memorable information to your bank account, such as your mobile number or email address. You can then send and receive money to and from your bank account with this information rather than traditional banking details. It is safer and faster than using traditional bank transfers.
If a casino supports this method, deposits are completed almost instantly. If it supports withdrawals with PayID, while once processed, the deposit is instant, the casino can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days to process the payment, depending on its payment procedures. Limits usually range from around $20-$2,000 for deposits and casino withdrawals.
Cryptocurrency
Cryptocurrency
Cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Tether are fast becoming one of online casinos’ most popular banking methods. They are also one of the fastest withdrawal methods, and as they are decentralised, they allow users to stay completely anonymous.
Deposits with crypto are typically instant. Withdrawals can be made anywhere from instant to 72 hours, depending on the casino and the token being used. Crypto limits also offer the most freedom, with maximum deposits and withdrawals often being $10,000 +, and some casinos even offer unlimited limits.
EWallets
EWallets
Ewallets act as a middleman between your bank and the site you use to send or receive money. They provide extra security measures, as your bank details are never shared with the casino. Popular eWallets include Skrill, PayPal, Neteller, ApplePay, and GPay.
Deposits will generally show in your casino account within a few minutes. Most casinos’ withdrawals take 1-3 business days, but receiving them within 24 hours is possible. Deposit and withdrawal limits usually range between $10 and $5,000.
Australian Online Casino Apps and Mobile Sites
You can play online casino games Down Under on your mobile phone. Whether you’re on Vodafone, Optus, or Telstra, you can use your Wi-Fi or mobile data to access pokies on the go.
Some of the best online casinos in Australia offer downloadable apps that allow you to play games and make deposits. However, you can also gamble through a mobile browser with the same user experience.
Make sure you have good mobile reception before you log in to a casino app and start playing the pokies. If the internet connection drops, your game will be paused, and you must restart the spin or blackjack hand when the connection returns.
Tips for New Players at Casino Sites in Australia
We’ve listed some tips from our casino gambling experts to increase your chances of winning when playing for real money.
Budget Your Gambling – Setting a budget is the first rule of responsible gaming. Decide how much you can afford to lose, then set away that much. Never chase losses, and set time limits whether you’re winning or losing at an Australian casino online.
Claim a Welcome Bonus – You’re able to boost your bankroll at an online casino in Australia by claiming a first deposit bonus/welcome package. These are large deposit bonus offers where you can unlock free cash by playing eligible games. However, make sure you read the terms and conditions of the bonus first.
Practice with the demo versions – Begin by playing casino games and pokies in demo mode for free if you are new to online gambling in Australia. As soon as you are comfortable with the game, go ahead and play for real money.
Start playing low – When you start playing real money casino games, begin by placing small, minimum bets, then increase your stakes once you know what you’re doing.
Know when to quit – Losing control is possible when playing at an Australina casino online. Follow your bankroll strategy, and don’t let either of your winning or losing streaks fool you. It’s always better to walk away and play again another day.
Responsible Casino Gambling in Australia
Problem gambling is a serious issue in Australia that causes harm and billions of dollars to the economy. Stay in control of your gambling at top Australia online casino sites with strict bankroll management, and always set limits.
In addition, you can reach out to organisations in Australia that can provide immediate help.
The first land based casino in Australia opened it’s doors in late 1973. The Wrest Point Hotel and Casino in Tasmania is still in operation today and is one of 14 official casinos within the country. Each state and territory has at least one casino with the biggest being the Crown Casino in Melbourne. Here’s a list of five of the best casinos in Australia:
Crown Casino Melbourne
Crown Casino Melbourne
The Crown Casino Melbourne is not only the largest casino in Australia but also the largest casino complex in the entire Southern Hemisphere. It has a license for more than 500 table games and over 2,500 pokies.
The Star Sydney
The Star Sydney
The Star Sydney opened in 1995 and saw a large extension in 2011. Players can enjoy over 1,500 electronic games such as virtual table games, pokies and video poker. There are also more than 100 live table games on offer.
Casino Canberra
Casino Canberra
Casino Canberra was the first casino to open in the Capital Territory. It offers over 30 live table games which is a little on the low side but it has “stadium gaming” experience which offers hundreds of electronic terminals linked to the live games in the casino so players can enjoy the games in privacy.
Wrest Point Hotel Casino
Wrest Point Hotel Casino
The Wrest Point Hotel Casino is the oldest casino in Australia which has over five decades of history is still one of the most popular gambling destinations in Australia. There are over 500 electronic machines with credit ranging from $0.01 to $1. Whats more there is sports betting and several live casino gaming options including, pontoon, blackjack, roulette, baccarat and the big wheel.
The Star Gold Coast
The Star Gold Coast
The Star Gold Coast Casino is located on it’s own little island in Broadbeach is home to more than 1,400 electronic casino games and 70+ table games. It operates 24 hours, 7 days a week almost every day of the year except for Christmas, ANZAC day and Good Friday when it operates at slightly reduce hours.
Australian Online Casinos vs. Land-Based Casinos
In Australia, gambling is available through land-based casinos and offshore casinos that operate online. Below you’ll find the main differences between offshore casinos and land-based casinos for Australian gamblers.
Location — Physical casinos are located all over Australia, mostly around major cities such as Sydney and Melbourne. Online casinos are accessible from any location.
Variety of Games — Casinos online often offer a wider variety of games than physical casinos.
Casino Bonuses — Casinos frequently offer bonuses to attract new customers and keep current ones coming back. Free spins, bonuses, and loyalty incentives are a few examples. Similar deals may be available at brick-and-mortar casinos, but they are less frequent.
Are Online Casinos Legal in Australia?
Australia has effectively outlawed online casinos. Certainly, there are no licensed AU casinos that operate Down Under.
However, that doesn’t stop offshore casinos and betting sites from operating in Oz. You can play pokies, roulette, or blackjack at dozens of top Australian casinos quite freely. You can even make deposits in AUD at some of the top casino sites.
Although there are no recorded cases of players being prosecuted for playing at offshore casinos, we would always advise caution if making cryptocurrency deposits and playing at casinos licensed outside Australia.
Online Casino Laws in Australia
Australia has had legal casino gambling since 1973, when the first casino opened. However, despite having legal in-person gambling, the country has consistently decided not to legalise online casino games.
The Interactive Gambling Act of 2001 (IGA) is the main piece of legislation governing online casinos in Australia. Essentially, the law forbids most types of online betting Down Under.
There have been some attempts to regulate and legalise casino sites in Australia but recent changes such as the law banning the usage of credit cards for online gambling, suggest that the country is not likely to legalise online casino gaming anytime soon.
Sites offering gambling services are not eligible for licenses in Australia. However, a carveout for Northern Territory means gambling companies can open offices in NT to provide some betting services overseas. In most cases, this covers sport betting only.
Methodology
How We Rate Casino Sites
The competition for places among online casinos is fierce. We have developed criteria that help us rate gambling sites. On top of that, we also consider the factors discussed below.
Selection of Games – The best casinos feature slot, table, live dealer, instant win, and specialty games. We search for casinos that offer betting limits that cater to both beginners and high rollers.
Software Providers – Top game developers create fun and visually appealing casino titles. Microgaming, NetEnt, Evolution, and Pragmatic Play are examples of respected providers you can expect to find on our recommended casino sites.
Loyalty Rewards – VIP clubs and loyalty programs reward existing players for consistent deposits. Common rewards include free spins, quicker payouts, personal account managers, and birthday bonuses.
Tournaments – Place bets on eligible games to earn tournament points. Players finishing towards the top of the leaderboard will win prizes. Our top-rated casinos feature tournaments that suit all budgets and objectives.
Payout Rate – The payout rate is the percentage of money players will earn from money gambled over a period of time. Our recommended casinos have a payout rate of over 96%.
Bonuses and Promotions – Before recommending a site, we ensure that there are bonuses for both new members and existing players. Bonus terms should be realistic and players should be able to meet wagering requirements by playing a range of casino games.
80+
Online Casinos Reviewed
6
Key Criteria
500+
Research Hours
10+
In-House Writers
Final Thoughts
Despite Australian-based companies being prohibited under the law from supplying real-money online casino games, several sites based offshore allow Australians to gamble.
These offshore online casinos allow players to play their favourite casino games for real money. The best Australian online casinos offer diverse games, safe and secure payment options and some jaw-droppingly high bonuses.
There are many top casinos in Australia. Spinsy, Goldspin and Instant Casino are some of our favourites. Ultimately, it depends on what is important in a casino and what games you prefer. Ensure that whatever casino you use has a gaming license from a reputable regulatory body, such as the Malta Gaming Authority, for example.
What is the most trusted online casino in Australia?
All the offshore casinos featured on our website are legit and licensed. Operators offer independent resolutions for disputes, and they provide audits to prove that pokies and games are tested.
Is online casino gambling legal in Australia?
Australia has no online casinos licensed However, some online betting companies are offering gambling services from NT.
Do you need to pay tax on casino winnings in Australia?
In general, online casino winnings are exempt from federal tax unless you class yourself as a professional gambler. You must keep detailed records of gambling wins and losses when you come to file your tax return.
Can you play casino games with Australian dollars?
Some Australian online casino sites let you convert AUD into BTC or USD before you play. All of the recommended Australian casinos on this page let you play pokies and games in USD.
The ReadWrite Editorial policy involves closely monitoring the gambling and blockchain industries for major developments, new product and brand launches, game releases and other newsworthy events. Editors assign relevant stories to in-house staff writers with expertise in each particular topic area. Before publication, articles go through a rigorous round of editing for accuracy, clarity, and to ensure adherence to ReadWrite's style guidelines.
Pride is a iGaming expert writer with over 10 years of experience. He joined ReadWrite in 2024 as a casino content specialist, with a simple, relatable, and easy-to-read writing style. He loves staying up to date with the latest industry trends, providing readers with the most actionable insights. Pride is featured on multiple publications including TheGameDayCasino.com, BestOdds.com, UsOnlineCasino.com and PACasino.com.
Unregulated and illegal gambling is a problem that many countries around the world face and in recent years, there’s been a serious crackdown to aid the general public. We’ve seen...
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