List of recommended Aussie online casino sites
Below, our experts have compiled a comprehensive list of the leading online casinos for Australian players.
And you can relax in the knowledge that each online casino in Australia with real money that we list has been picked apart by our team of expert reviewers. With over 10 years’ experience in the online gaming industry, our staff know exactly what makes a great casino. And, perhaps more importantly, what doesn’t!
So, when you pick a site through us, you can be sure that you’re getting a great selection of games and the most cutting-edge websites to play on. As well as mobile-optimised games and apps, 5-star customer service and the most convenient ways to pay.
Australian gambling laws and legislations
Gambling laws in Australia can be tricky, to say the least. And that’s thanks, in part, to the country being so darn big! Between federal and domestic laws, it can be hard to find cold hard facts about where exactly you can gamble. As well as what type of gambling you can participate in. But we’re going to give you a good idea!
As of 2001, the Australian government overhauled the gambling laws in the country. And cracked down hard on a lot of different activities. With the hardest-hit being casino gambling online.
As a result, you can still visit land-based casinos (depending on where you are), and participate in some sports betting. However, online casino gambling in Australia is strictly prohibited. But that hasn’t stopped lots of offshore sites targeting Australian customers.
Is online gambling legal in Australia?
To put it bluntly, no. Gambling online Australia is prohibited. But, that said, the law seems to go after the casino operators, rather than players. So a lot of people continue to seek out offshore online casinos. As there never seems to be any repercussions or punishment, if you get caught playing at casino sites based overseas.
To summarise, online gambling is still extremely popular in and around Australia. And the powers that be appear to turn a blind eye to Aussie customers taking their business outside of the country. And the good news is, if you want to find casino games online, there are plenty of offshore operators happy to welcome you to play with them.
Which casinos accept Australian players?
Finding online casino Australia real money sites overseas is easy. There are literally thousands of sites that not only accept Australian players. But that also offer Australian dollars as a preferred payment method.
However, as with any real-money site, you need to remain vigilant. And not fall into the trap of unlicensed gaming operators. That’s why, regardless of what site you’re on, you need to check that the casino in question has a licence from a reputable authority.
So, here’s a look at the two main licensing bodies that are responsible for the majority of safe and trustworthy offshore sites.
MGA Casinos
The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has a sterling reputation. And it licenses and regulates the vast majority of casino online operators that are based overseas.
In fact, the MGA did such a good job at managing its own sites, that it provided the model for a lot of other licensing bodies across the world. And, as such, loads of countries use the MGA’s model to oversee casinos worldwide, and keep them safe for players.
Therefore, some of the biggest operators in the world call the MGA home. And finding an MGA licence number on a casino site means you’re getting a top-tier operator that’s trusted and reliable.
Curacao casinos
The other major player when it comes to licensing and regulating offshore online-based casinos is the small Caribbean island of Curacao.
At first, it might seem a strange choice for casino operators to have their HQ in this tiny and relatively remote place. But, when you realise there are significant tax breaks for businesses based in Curacao, then it makes a bit more sense!
Because of the tax-haven status of Curacao, it means that a lot of offshore casinos operate out of this island. And over the years, Curacao has gained a vast catalogue of some of the biggest names in the industry. So, if you see a licence number that belongs to a Curacao casino, it means they’re part of a huge network that calls this tropical island home.
What we look for in an Australian casino online
So, now you know that finding online casinos in Australia is pretty much an impossible task. Therefore, if you enjoy gambling online, it’s probably time to seek out a great offshore site that’s happy to accept Australian players. And that’s where we come in!
Our experts take a deep dive into each site we review. And only list casinos that meet our reviewers’ high expectations.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at exactly what our experts take into account when reviewing a great casino based overseas.
Is the site secure and safe?
One of the very first things that our experts look at before listing any site is if it’s safe for players to use. All internet casinos, wherever they’re based in the world, must be licensed and regulated by a trustworthy local authority.
Therefore, before our reviews take any further steps in reviewing a site, they first look to make sure that the site in question carries a licence number. As well as accompanying information about the licensing body itself.
Do they accept payments in AUD?
The next thing our experts look at is if a casino accepts Australian dollars. Because there are so many operators that welcome Australian customers, we expect to see the Australian dollar as a preferred method of payment.
However, that’s not to say that you can’t pay at a casino online Australia overseas site in the local currency. But, you must take into account the exchange rate when you do this. Therefore, we list sites that offer Australian dollars as a preferred currency. So that you don’t need to worry about getting stung on an exchange rate for a currency that you’re not familiar with.
Does the casino offer good bonuses to new players?
Part of joining a great new casino is getting your hands on a fantastic bonus to compliment your new membership. New player bonuses are always the most generous deal that you will come across. So it makes sense to seek out sites that offer the juiciest bonus deals around.
But our experts don’t just list sites that offer lots of bonuses. First, they look at the terms and conditions which are attached to these bonus deals. To make sure that these terms are realistic for the player. As there’s nothing worse than getting your hands on a great bonus and finding out that there’s no way that you can fulfil all the T&Cs. So, any and all online gambling Australia sites that we work with offer fair and reasonable terms on their offers.
Do they have a solid game selection?
One of the most important aspects of any casino site is its game selection. Therefore, our reviewers look at what kind of games these sites are offering their players.
We expect to see fantastic selection of the best online pokies Australia, table games, live casino offerings and video poker. And it’s especially great when these sites offer their own sportsbook and/or bingo pages as well.
Furthermore, not only do our experts take into account the size of the catalogue on offer. They also look at where these casinos are getting their games from. As some of the greatest software providers in the world provide fresh and exciting casino game titles each month. So we like to see a great selection of games from a variety of different providers.
That way, we know our customers are getting the best possible selection of casino games on the market.
What deposit & withdrawal methods are available?
When it comes to online casinos that welcome Australian players, we don’t just make sure that the casino site in question offers Australian dollars as a preferred method of payment. Our experts also ensure that you’re getting access to the most convenient and sophisticated ways to make deposits and withdrawals.
Nowadays, things like bank transfers and debit card payments are still very popular. But they’re a little old-fashioned. Therefore, we also expect to see more modern platforms on offer. Such as e-wallets and pay-by-mobile options.
Is the casino optimised for mobile gambling?
Another super important thing for us when we review a casino online in Australia is looking to see that you get a great mobile experience as well.
Mobile-friendly online casinos have come a long way in the last few years. And nowadays, you can get the same five-star experience from your mobile phone or tablet as you would expect from a PC or laptop.
Therefore, when our reviewers sit down at the site, they check to see if players are being offered an incredible mobile-optimised site and/or a dedicated app, which you can download direct to your phone.
Most popular Australian online pokies
Now let’s take a look at some of the most popular Australian pokies online. These slot titles are among the best online pokies in Australia, and abroad.
And the best news? They’re all available to play today at a great offshore site that welcomes Aussie punters.
Legend of the Nile
This beautifully animated game comes from master games makers, BetSoft. While there are thousands of Ancient Egypt-themed pokies on the market, this title stands out from the crowd. With its unusual 6×6 grid format, with tumbling symbols, this is more like Egyptian Tetris than a normal slot game!
Plus, with exploding wins, bonus rounds and a fun free spins trail, it’s not hard to see why this Egyptian adventure slot has become a smash-hit with slots fans the world over.
2 Million B.C
Another title from BetSoft, 2 Million B.C is fun, quirky and incredibly entertaining. This cutely-animated game sees you making friends with friendly cavemen. And finding beautiful jewels and other ancient artefacts along the way.
And, with 5 reels and a generous 30 paylines, this medium volatility title is enough to keep you entertained for hours. Not to mention, it’s chock full of special features, including bonus games and free spins.
Cleopatra
This colourful and fast-paced game comes from gaming giants IGT. And proved to be such a popular title that it has spawned many sequels.
In this fantastically richly animated title, you meet the stunning and alluring Cleopatra herself. Plus, the vibrant detail on the symbols makes this game a visual feast. With scarab beetles and golden hieroglyphs sparking against the purple and blue backdrop.
Finally, not only is this title a colourful masterpiece. It also offers some majorly impressive prizes and features. Cleopatra is one generous deity, indeed!
Reactoonz
This is one incredible fast-paced and action-packed game! Brought to you from gaming moguls, Play N’Go, Reactoonz is a crazy title that mixes elements of Candy Crush Saga and the minions from Despicable Me!
Another slot that has shirked the standard reel format. And in this energetic caper, you get a whole 49 symbols in play at a time, with the 7×7 grid formation. Reactoonz also offers some of the best bonus elements we’ve seen. And you charge up the ‘Quantum Meter’ with every win, which can enable one of four different features!
Finally, this game has high volatility. So you might be waiting a while for a big win. But don’t worry; there’s more than enough to keep you happy, as you play this insanely fun and quirky pokie!
Dawn of Egypt
Finally, we end our list with another Ancient Egyptian offering, this time from Play N’Go. This game is particularly beautiful. And the graphics are world-class, with the reel set on the steps of some glorious ancient palace.
Dawn of Egypt offers players a very opulent experience. And, as you’d expect, all the typical imagery and symbols are present and accounted for. Not only that, but this game also has some incredible bonus features, including an amazing free spins round.
Finally, this title has a fun turbo-spin feature. For those who like to up the ante on their slots gaming!
Other popular casino games in Australia
Aside from slot games, there are tons of other offerings at the best casino sites worldwide. So, let’s take a look at some of the top games that Australian players enjoy.
Blackjack
Blackjack is probably the most popular card game in the world. Extremely easy to learn, blackjack has become a staple of the casino world. And with all the top sites offering tons of varieties of blackjack, you’ll be spoiled for choice!
Furthermore, in recent years, live blackjack has taken the industry by storm. And you can now sit face-to-face with your dealer. And speak with them directly, in the most immersive online experience that’s as close to the real thing as possible.
Roulette
Another classic table game, roulette is completely rooted in luck. Meaning that you have just as good a chance as anyone else of landing a big wind. And it’s this lucky element that makes roulette so popular the world over.
Additionally, online casino sites now offer so many varieties of this classic game for you to try out. And, if you like things a bit more fast-paced, you can try fun variations, like multi-wheel and multi-ball roulette.
Video Poker
Finally, no casino site online would be complete without a fantastic selection of poker games. While there are plenty of sites dedicated to this skillful card game, a lot of people prefer video poker to playing against other real-life competitors. As it’s less intense.
Therefore, the best casinos in the world offer a fantastic selection of video poker for you to play. Plus, if you do want to face off against other players at a later point, then video poker gives you the perfect chance to practise your skills first!
Live online casinos Australia
Live online casino Australia is about as close to playing at a land-based establishment as you can get. And with the top sites now stocking a great catalogue of live titles, there’s never been a better time to give live gaming a try.
What does live gaming mean?
When online casinos offer ‘live games’ it means that you can play games with a real dealer or croupier. Plus, these dealers use sophisticated real equipment, so that you play with real cards, roulette wheels, dice etc.
Also, all the dealers are trained by the incredible software providers that make these games. So you get a professional and fun experience, with fully-trained casino staff, every single time.
Live casino games suit those that enjoy the trapping of a brick-and-mortar casino. The social engagement is a huge part of the fun. But also, because the games are run by real people, the pace is a lot more relaxing and authentic.
Australian online casino bonuses
We’ve already mentioned that one of the best parts of signing up to a fantastic new casino is picking up a great bonus deal. As they can help to start you off on the right foot.
So, with that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the most popular bonuses that you can find at Australian-friendly casinos offshore.
Offers with no deposit required
The most popular offer by far at any casino site is a no deposit bonus. These deals are exactly what they sound like. In that, you get your bonus without having to make a deposit with the site.
If that sounds too good to be true, it pays to remember that these Australian no deposit bonus casino deals are usually quite low in value. They’re usually just a little bit of bonus cash and/or free spins to use on online pokies.
That said, because there is no financial risk to you whatsoever, these no deposit offers are the perfect way to try out a new site and its games for free. In fact, that’s exactly why these bonuses were created! To give you an excellent ‘try before you buy’ experience.
Offers with deposit required
The other type of bonus that you get at most casinos is a deposit bonus. As the name suggests, this is when you must make a deposit with the casino side in order to trigger your bonus.
Naturally, because you are now taking on some financial risk, the casino will be more generous towards you. Therefore, deposit bonuses are always more lucrative than no deposit offers.
The most common type of deposit bonus is called a ‘match deposit bonus’. And this is where the casino will match your deposit amount with a percentage. Offshore casinos are famously generous when it comes to match deposit bonuses. In fact, you could be looking at anywhere from 100% to 500% on top of your deposit amount.
Therefore, these deals suit players who like to deposit large sums of money in one go.
Pros of playing with bonuses
Now let’s take a look at some of the benefits of picking up a great bonus to play with:
- They give you more funds to play with
- You can try out lots of different games for free
- With more money in your bankroll comes more chances to win
- Playing with bonus cash or no deposit free spins Australia means less chance of you losing your own money
Cons of playing with bonuses
Now let’s take a look at some of the possible downsides of playing with an online casino Australia bonus:
- All bonuses come with a lot of T&Cs that must be fulfilled
- It can be difficult to cash out real money winnings
- Some deposit methods are excluded from bonus deals
- If you don’t fulfil all the T&Cs, you may lose your bonus balance
Australian real money casino gaming
With so many complicated laws surrounding gambling on the internet in Australia, you might be wondering if it’s worth playing with real money at all!
So, let’s check out real money gaming versus playing for fun at an online casino.
Real money gaming vs. Play for fun
When it comes to casino games, most sites offer you the chance to play the games in ‘demo mode’. Demo versions are exactly the same as real-money games; only, you play with valueless coins. Therefore, you can never cash out any real-money winnings.
Playing demos is fun and exciting, but it doesn’t compare to the thrill of playing with real money. That said, playing for cash comes with its own set of dangers. And of course, you must be prepared that you risk losing some of your own money when you play these games.
Another great thing about demos is that they’re a great way to practise your skills, before taking on the real-money version of a game. So a lot of people happily bounce between demos and real-money titles, as and when they want.
Finally, one of the major upsides of playing with real money at the casino site, is that you have access to all the games in the casino’s catalogue. As, sometimes, certain titles are excluded from demos.
But, if you play with real money, you can access all the fun pokies, live casino and Australian online bookmakers’ sportsbooks that are on offer.
Most popular payment methods for Aussie players
So, now you know all about the fantastic games you can play. And the great bonuses you can pick up as an Australian player at an offshore site.
Now it’s time to take a peek at some of the most sophisticated and cutting-edge payment methods that you can use at your new favourite casino.
POLi
POli is the perfect platform to pay at Australian real money money casino sites. It’s super quick, ultra convenient and uber safe!
Acting as a middle-man between you and the casino site, POLi lets you make payments via your internet banking. So there’s no need to open an account with them.
The reason players love this service is because POLi protects your data from third parties. So, even though you’re using your internet banking to make transactions, you’re protected by POLi, which never shares your sensitive info with the casino company.
Furthermore, POLi never stores your info either. So each transaction is unique. And super safe. Plus, it’s completely free to use! And you get an instant confirmation of every payment you make.
While you can use POLi for tons of different payments online, it’s particularly popular with casino fans. Because it offers this extra level of security. And you can never be too safe!
Paypal
Possibly the world’s best-known e-wallet, PayPal casinos provides a super safe and convenient way to make deposits and withdrawals at any casino site.
It’s free to set up an account. Plus, it’s available in multiple languages and currencies. And players love the additional security that comes with using PayPal. Because you only ever need your username and password to make transactions. Meaning, you never need to give your card details or personal information out to a third party again.
Just be aware, there are always some fees associated with e-wallets. Usually, these are for moving your money around. So it’s important to check what these charges are, before you start to use your account.
Debit/credit cards
Debit and credit cards remain the most popular and convenient way to pay at any online casino in the world. And you’ll never have to worry about your Visa or MasterCard not being accepted at global casinos.
Furthermore, debit and credit card transactions are usually free (unless paying in another currency). And don’t require you to open any additional accounts, like e-wallets do.
However, debit and credit cards require you to give out your card number each time you make a deposit or withdrawal. So, they’re not so popular among the more safety-conscious players out there.
FAQ
If you still have questions about playing at online casino Australia sites, then check out some of our FAQs.
