Australia
ACMA Moves to Block Major Illegal Gambling Website

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has requested Australian internet service providers (ISPs) to block the illegal gambling website thepokies.net.
This is one of the most significant websites to be blocked since the ACMA started using this regulatory tool in November 2019. Payments to the site are estimated to run into tens of millions of dollars. Data from Similarweb shows there are around 30,000 Australian visitors to the site each month (based on mobile and desktop data).
An ACMA investigation found the site was operating online casino-style games, which are prohibited in Australia under the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.
ACMA Chair Nerida O’Loughlin said that while to date the regulator had requested ISPs to block more than 500 illegal gambling websites, thepokies.net is one of the most substantial in terms of potential harm to the community.
“We have received more complaints about thepokies.net this year than any other illegal gambling website, and it is clearly doing a lot of harm to the Australian community,” Ms O’Loughlin said.
“Complaints have ranged from people who have lost significant amounts of money through to the site refusing to honour deposits and winnings.
“By blocking access to sites like this we are sending a strong message that the ACMA can and will take action to stop illegal operators from targeting Australians.”
Website blocking is just one element of the ACMA’s strategy to disrupt illegal gambling, which includes industry engagement, targeted enforcement and public education. Over 160 illegal services have pulled out of the Australian market since the ACMA started enforcing new illegal offshore gambling rules in 2017.
Ms O’Loughlin said consumers using illegal gambling websites do not have the important customer protections that come with licenced services.
“If one of these sites decides to keep your money, and we know that happens quite regularly, there is nothing you can do about it,” she said.
Along with thepokies.net, the ACMA has also requested ISPs to block illegal gambling sites Azure Hand, Abo Casino, Betroom, 777Bay, Space Lilly, Jet Casino, Katsu Bet and Winz.
Australia
Government Warns Industry About Going Quiet on Gambling Harm Messaging in TV Ads

Department of Enterprise Investment and Trade
The New South Wales (NSW) Government is calling on wagering operators to ensure responsible gambling messages are communicated effectively in advertising.
The announcement comes as Liquor and Gaming NSW has issued show cause notices to two betting operators due to irregularities in their television ads that undermined agreed responsible gambling messages.
Jane Lin, Regulatory Operations and Enforcement Executive Director for Liquor and Gaming NSW said wagering operators in NSW should ensure their advertising gives these messages the right exposure to reduce the risk of harm.
“In one instance, the responsible gambling message was barely audible while the rest of the ad could be heard loud and clear,” Lin said. “Another operator drastically changed the tone of the voice-over when the message was spoken, going from strong and confident to soft and passive.
“We urge gambling operators and their creative agencies to advertise responsibly and make sure content is in the spirit of providing a clear harm reduction message to consumers and the broader community. Betting operators have a vital role to play in reducing risk of gambling harm and it starts with how they advertise.”
The requirement to include standardized responsible gambling messages in advertising is part of the National Consumer Protection Framework (NCPF) for online wagering in Australia. The Framework is designed to provide strong and nationally consistent minimum protections for consumers of interactive wagering services licensed in Australia, in line with international best-practice.
Liquor and Gaming NSW is responsible for ensuring operators in NSW comply with various measures in the Framework including responsible gambling messaging. The wagering operators are engaging with Liquor and Gaming NSW on this matter.
Liquor and Gaming NSW can take a range of disciplinary actions, such as prosecution, if there is evidence operators have failed in their responsibility to provide clear harm reduction messaging under the NCPF. Wagering operators found guilty face penalties of up to $110,000. For more information on the Framework visit Gambling Reforms, Department of Social Services, Australian Government (DSS . Gov. au). Media contact: [email protected] LiquorAndGaming. NSW.Gov.au, 0438 207 294.
Australia
What are Some of the Best Games Developed by Australian game Developers?

The Australian game development industry has been gaining traction in recent years, with many talented developers creating innovative and engaging games across a variety of genres. Australian game developers have made a significant impact on the gaming industry, with games such as “Hollow Knight,” “Unto the End,” and “Hand of Fate” gaining critical acclaim and a dedicated following.
This blog post will highlight some of the best games developed by Australian game developers and explore their unique features and gameplay mechanics. Additionally, we will discuss the relationship between Australian game development and the casino/gambling industry, highlighting successful collaborations between game developers and casinos/gambling sites.
The Australian game development industry has also been instrumental in shaping the future of gaming, with many developers pushing the boundaries of what is possible in terms of gameplay, graphics, and storytelling. As technology continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Australian game developers adapt to new trends and emerging technologies
Top Games Developed by Australian Developers
Australian game developers have created some truly outstanding games that have gained critical acclaim and a dedicated following. Here, we will provide an overview of the top games developed by Australian developers.
“Hollow Knight” – Developed by Team Cherry, “Hollow Knight” is a 2D action-adventure game that has garnered widespread praise for its atmospheric world-building, challenging gameplay, and intricate level design. The game’s stunning hand-drawn visuals and haunting soundtrack create an immersive experience that draws players into a dark and mysterious world.
“Unto the End” – Developed by 2 Ton Studios, “Unto the End” is a 2D side-scrolling action game that emphasizes realistic combat mechanics and player choice. The game’s striking visuals and moody soundtrack set the stage for a challenging and engaging experience that rewards careful observation and strategic thinking.
“Hand of Fate” – Developed by Defiant Development, “Hand of Fate” is a unique blend of action RPG and card game mechanics. Players navigate a series of randomly generated dungeons, battling enemies and collecting loot, while card-based mechanics determine the flow of the game. The game’s atmospheric visuals and immersive sound design make for a compelling and memorable experience.
“The Gardens Between” – Developed by The Voxel Agents, “The Gardens Between” is a puzzle game that centers around time manipulation mechanics. Players navigate a series of surreal, dreamlike environments, manipulating time to solve puzzles and progress through the game. The game’s stunning visuals and evocative music create a mesmerizing experience that is both relaxing and thought-provoking.
“Crossy Road” – Developed by Hipster Whale, “Crossy Road” is a mobile game that has gained widespread popularity for its addictive gameplay and charming visuals. Players navigate a series of obstacles, attempting to cross a busy road without getting hit by cars. The game’s bright and colorful graphics and catchy soundtrack make for a fun and engaging experience.
Australian Game Developers and the Casino Industry
The Australian game development industry has played a significant role in the casino and gambling industry. Australian game developers have created a wide range of games that are popular among casino players, including slot machines, table games, and online casino games.
One of the reasons Australian game developers have become popular in the casino industry is their expertise in creating visually appealing and immersive games. These games are designed to engage players and keep them coming back for more. Additionally, many Australian game developers have a background in creating video games, which has allowed them to bring a unique perspective to casino game design.
Another factor that has contributed to the success of Australian game developers in the casino industry is their focus on innovation. Many Australian game developers are constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible in terms of game design and technology. This has led to the creation of new and exciting games that offer players a fresh and engaging experience.
The success of Australian game developers in the casino industry has not gone unnoticed. Many of the world’s largest casino and gambling companies have partnered with Australian game developers and some of the best bitcoin gambling sites are now offering these games to their users. These partnerships have also resulted in creation of some of the most popular games in the casino industry, such as “Lightning Link” and “Dragon Link” by Aristocrat, and “Big Red” and “Queen of the Nile” by Ainsworth.
Australian Game Developers and the Future of Gaming.
Furthermore, Australian game developers have been instrumental in the growth of online gambling. Many online gambling sites now offer a wide range of games developed by Australian game developers, including online slots, table games, and video poker. The availability of these games has helped to attract a new generation of online gamblers who are looking for exciting and engaging games.
The Australian game development industry has been at the forefront of innovation, with many developers pushing the boundaries of what is possible in terms of gameplay, graphics, and storytelling. As technology continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Australian game developers adapt to new trends and emerging technologies.
One of the most significant trends in gaming is the growth of mobile gaming. As more and more people use their mobile devices to play games, Australian game developers have been quick to capitalize on this trend by developing games specifically for mobile platforms. Many Australian game developers have created mobile versions of their popular games, which has helped to broaden their reach and attract new players.
Another emerging trend in gaming is the rise of virtual and augmented reality. While still in its early stages, virtual and augmented reality has the potential to revolutionize the gaming industry. Australian game developers are at the forefront of this trend, with many already developing games that take advantage of this technology. The use of virtual and augmented reality in gaming could potentially create an entirely new gaming experience, where players are fully immersed in the game world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Australian game development industry has made a significant impact on the gaming industry, creating some of the most popular and innovative games in recent years. Their focus on immersive gameplay, stunning visuals, and innovative mechanics has helped to shape the future of gaming.
Moreover, the Australian game development industry has been instrumental in the growth of the casino and gambling industry, with many of their games becoming some of the most popular in the industry. Their expertise in creating visually appealing and engaging games has helped to attract new players to the industry.
Looking to the future, Australian game developers are well-positioned to take advantage of emerging technologies such as virtual and augmented reality. With their track record of innovation and creativity, we can expect to see Australian game developers continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in gaming, creating new and exciting experiences for players around the world.
In addition, as the gaming industry continues to grow, we can expect to see a greater focus on inclusivity and diversity. Australian game developers have already demonstrated a commitment to creating games that feature diverse characters and storylines, and this trend is likely to continue in the future.
Overall, the Australian game development industry has proven to be a significant contributor to the gaming industry, and it is important to recognize their achievements and contributions. As the industry continues to evolve and grow, we can expect to see Australian game developers play an even greater role in shaping its future.
Asia
Amatic Names Robert Dykstra as New Manager of Business Development for APAC Region

Austrian slots and multi-player gaming manufacturer Amatic Industries has named Robert Dykstra as the company’s new manager of business development for the Asian Pacific region. Amatic stated that, due to his experience and required skills, Dykstra is expected to be “a great fit” for the company and its business philosophy.
Based in Sydney, Australia, Dykstra joins Amatic’s expanding team and will be responsible for serving the APAC region. He brings more than 25 years of experience in both land-based gaming and online to the new role, with the last 6 years responsible for South East Asia.
Amatic’s management stated: “With Robert, we are thrilled to welcome an experienced person who has excellent knowledge of the Asian Pacific region and can thus strongly represent the Amatic brand.”
The new appointment comes amid a busy year for Amatic, which has showcased its solutions at a number of events these past few months, including the 42nd annual Irish Gaming Show and ICE London back in February.
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