Australia’s gambling industry is one of the most vibrant and tightly controlled markets in the world. With millions of Australians engaging in casino gaming every year—both online and offline—it’s no surprise that each state and territory has developed its own unique set of regulations. While the overall framework aims to ensure fairness, responsible gambling, and consumer protection, the laws and licensing conditions can vary dramatically depending on where you are in the country.
In this article, we’ll explore how casino regulations differ across Australia’s states and territories, shedding light on what makes each jurisdiction distinct and how that shapes the nation’s casino landscape.
New South Wales (NSW)
New South Wales has one of the most developed gambling frameworks in Australia, largely overseen by Liquor & Gaming NSW and the Independent Casino Commission. Sydney’s The Star is the state’s most prominent casino, operating under a highly specific license that includes strict anti-money laundering controls, surveillance requirements, and responsible gambling obligations.
NSW has taken a firm stance on casino regulation, especially in recent years following several investigations into compliance failures. Operators must demonstrate transparency in financial transactions and implement detailed player protection systems. Online gambling, including casino-style games, is limited to operators licensed under the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (Cth), though sports betting is allowed via approved platforms.
In NSW, advertising rules are also tougher than in many other jurisdictions, requiring all gambling promotions to carry responsible gambling messages and prohibiting any form of targeting to minors.
Victoria
Victoria is home to Crown Melbourne, the largest casino in the country and one of the most recognized gaming venues in the Southern Hemisphere. Regulation in Victoria falls under the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC), which enforces licensing, player protection, and compliance with strict anti-corruption laws.
After recent royal commissions exposed governance issues, Victoria has undergone a significant tightening of regulations. The VGCCC now monitors casino operations closely, with an emphasis on transparency, data reporting, and responsible gambling programs. The state also enforces one of the most advanced pre-commitment systems, allowing players to set betting limits and self-exclude if needed.
Unlike some other states, Victoria has clear policies for the future of digital gambling, actively exploring frameworks that could extend its oversight into online casino-style games if federal laws evolve.
Queensland
Queensland boasts several major casinos including The Star Gold Coast, Treasury Brisbane, and The Ville Resort-Casino in Townsville. Oversight is managed by the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation (OLGR) under the Department of Justice and Attorney-General.
Queensland maintains a balanced approach to regulation—strict enough to ensure fairness but supportive of tourism and investment. The state’s Casino Control Act 1982 governs all casino operations, with detailed rules on licensing, game approvals, and staff training.
One of Queensland’s distinguishing features is its embrace of resort-integrated casino developments, which blend entertainment, hospitality, and gaming under one regulatory model. The OLGR ensures these facilities adhere to responsible gambling standards and contribute financially to community benefit funds.
Queensland’s online gambling regulations remain aligned with federal law—offshore operators without Australian licenses are not permitted to advertise or offer services to residents.
Western Australia (WA)
Western Australia stands apart from the rest of the nation with its single licensed casino, Crown Perth. The casino operates under the Casino Control Act 1984, and regulation is handled by the Gaming and Wagering Commission of Western Australia.
WA is known for having the most conservative gambling environment in the country. Electronic gaming machines (pokies) are not allowed outside the casino, making it the only state where pokies cannot be found in pubs or clubs. This strict stance reflects the state’s long-standing policy to limit gambling accessibility and minimize potential harm.
Despite this restrictive approach, Crown Perth remains a major economic contributor, and the government ensures that compliance and player protection remain top priorities. The commission conducts regular audits, and any breach of regulations can result in substantial penalties or suspension of operations.
South Australia (SA)
South Australia’s casino regulation is administered by Consumer and Business Services (CBS) under the Department of the Attorney-General. The state has one main casino—SkyCity Adelaide—operating under the Casino Act 1997.
South Australia has taken proactive steps in promoting responsible gambling. The CBS requires operators to provide clear access to self-exclusion programs, financial counseling, and real-time monitoring of gaming activity.
The state also has robust advertising restrictions. Any gambling promotions must be socially responsible and must not imply that gambling is a way to solve financial issues. Additionally, SA applies one of the strongest tax frameworks for casino revenue, ensuring a significant share of profits returns to public infrastructure and community projects.
Online gambling remains regulated by federal law, but SA has introduced local measures to monitor advertising and restrict unlicensed operators from targeting residents through digital channels.
Tasmania
Tasmania’s casino industry is small but tightly regulated. The Tasmanian Liquor and Gaming Commission (TLGC) oversees casino operations under the Gaming Control Act 1993. The two main casinos, Wrest Point in Hobart and Country Club Tasmania in Launceston, operate under exclusive licenses held by Federal Group.
The state’s regulations emphasize player protection, transparency, and fairness. Tasmania was one of the first jurisdictions in Australia to implement a Gambling Control System, requiring detailed reporting on all gaming activity.
A unique aspect of Tasmania’s policy is its Community Support Levy, which collects a portion of gaming revenue to fund problem gambling services, community programs, and harm reduction initiatives. This system has been widely praised for creating a sustainable balance between entertainment and social responsibility.
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
The ACT operates under a relatively small-scale casino framework, with the Casino Canberra as its central venue. Regulation is enforced by the ACT Gambling and Racing Commission, which ensures all gaming operations comply with the Casino Control Act 2006.
The ACT government maintains a strong focus on harm minimization. There are comprehensive rules around the display of responsible gambling messages, player exclusion programs, and transparency in odds presentation.
Although online casinos remain illegal under federal law, the ACT has been open to discussions about creating a controlled licensing model for digital gambling, recognizing the shift toward online entertainment among Australian players.
Northern Territory (NT)
The Northern Territory stands out for being Australia’s most progressive region when it comes to online gambling. While physical casinos like Mindil Beach Casino Resort operate under traditional regulation via the NT Racing Commission, the territory also serves as the licensing hub for many of Australia’s online sportsbooks and betting platforms.
The NT’s Gaming Control Act 1993 gives the Racing Commission authority to issue remote gambling licenses, making it a favored destination for operators seeking legitimacy within Australian law. These licenses come with strict conditions related to responsible gambling, financial transparency, and consumer protection.
The NT’s flexible approach has encouraged innovation and growth in the digital gambling space, though it continues to enforce strong compliance rules to protect players.
Conclusion
Australia’s casino landscape reflects the country’s federal structure—each state and territory sets its own course, balancing economic opportunity with social responsibility. From the tightly controlled environment of Western Australia to the forward-looking digital licensing framework in the Northern Territory, every jurisdiction contributes to the nation’s diverse and dynamic gambling ecosystem.
Despite their differences, all states share a common goal: ensuring gambling remains fair, safe, and beneficial to the broader community. As the industry evolves—especially with the rapid rise of online play—these regulatory systems will continue to adapt, shaping the future of Australia’s casino scene for years to come.
