Australians are being warned against using dodgy, illegal overseas-hosted online gambling sites, with recent data pointing to an increase in online gambling during the COVID-19 pandemic - and the State Government is urging people to seek problem gambling help if they need it.
Minister for Human Services Michelle Lensink said offshore sites, such as online casinos or online pokies, are unlawful in Australia and South Australians who use them have no protections against fraudulent practice, with the real risk they will never see their purported winnings.
"Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, gaming venues like pubs, clubs and the casino closed due to restrictions and at the same time many professional sporting events were cancelled, meaning that more people may have turned to risky offshore gambling," said Minister Lensink.
"It's really concerning some South Australians may have turned to online gambling, but unlike licenced Australian gambling sites, these illegal alternatives are not subject to Australian law enforcement and don't undertake any gambling harm minimisation practices – and I really urge people to be vigilant."
Types of online gambling classified as illegal in Australia include pokies, casino style table games, virtual scratchies, and in-play betting on sporting events. All of these may be hosted offshore.
The Office for Problem Gambling within the Department of Human Services warns that some illegal overseas gambling sites try to appear legitimate, even using images such as the Australian flag and native animals to fool visitors.
Credit bureau Illion has found consumer spending on online gambling has risen throughout the COVID-19 pandemic compared to normal spending habits. While much of this would represent a shift towards gambling on licensed Australian sites, there is a real risk the appeal of illegal online gambling has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Previous research has estimated that 0.7 per cent of South Australians experience problem gambling with a further 2.2 per cent classified as moderate-risk gamblers who may experience some harm.
A State Government Gambling Prevalence Survey released mid last year revealed online betting had tripled in recent years. It revealed 13 per cent South Australians gambled online in the past year (2018), rising from five per cent since the last survey in 2012.
Betting on fantasy sports, sporting and novelty events were among the most popular online activities.
Minister Lensink said gambling becomes a problem when it causes harm to the person gambling or to those around them such as a partner, family, friends or others in the community.
"I really urge South Australian problem gamblers to seek help through our services if they need it – and before it's too late," said Minister Lensink.
"If you or someone you care about is experiencing harm from their gambling, please know that free, confidential help is available 24/7 in a variety of ways."
For phone support, please ring the Gambling Helpline on 1800 858 858. For internet support including live chat with a trained counsellor, please visit GamblingHelpOnline.org.au.
For more information and links to additional support services, visit problemgambling.sa.gov.au.
Complaints about illegal gambling websites can be made to the Australian Communications and Media Authority at www.acma.gov.au/protect-yourself-illegal-gambling-operators.
