If you’re a fan of poker and live in Australia, you may be wondering whether it’s possible to play real money poker online. The answer is yes, but it’s not as straightforward as you might think. In this article, we’ll take a look at the legal landscape of online poker in Australia and give you some tips on how to play safely and securely.
The Legal Landscape
In 2017, the Australian government passed legislation that effectively banned online poker in the country. The Interactive Gambling Amendment Act made it illegal for offshore companies to offer real money gambling services to Australian residents. This means that many of the major online poker sites, such as PokerStars and 888poker, no longer accept Australian players.
However, there are still some sites that do accept Australian players. These sites are usually based offshore and operate under licenses from other jurisdictions. While they may not be technically legal under Australian law, many players continue to use them without consequence.
Playing Safely
If you do decide to play real money poker online in Australia, it’s important to do so safely and securely. Here are some tips:
1. Choose a reputable site: Make sure the site you choose has a good reputation for safety and security.
2. Use a secure payment method: Stick to trusted payment methods such as credit cards or e-wallets.
3. Don’t share your personal information: Never give out your personal information such as your name or address to anyone online.
4. Stay within your budget: Set a budget for yourself and stick to it.
5. Know when to stop: Don’t chase your losses – if you’re on a losing streak, take a break and come back another day.
Conclusion
While the legal landscape of online poker in Australia may be complicated, it is still possible to play real money poker online if you choose the right site and take the necessary precautions. Just remember to play safely and responsibly, and always stay within your budget.
