SYDNEY – Australia’s media regulator is widening its crackdown on illegal online gambling, launching investigations into social media influencers suspected of promoting unlicensed betting sites.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority said this week it has begun probing several streamers for “potential” breaches of federal law tied to the promotion of offshore gambling platforms. ACMA did not name the individuals under investigation, though local media identified OnlyFans creator Emily Webb and former rugby league player Jordan Sami as among those reportedly being reviewed. The websites they allegedly promoted have already been blocked.
ACMA has blocked 1,564 illegal gambling websites since it began issuing takedown requests to internet service providers, part of a broader effort to curb unregulated sports betting and online casino operations targeting Australians.
The regulator said it plans to contact influencers directly to warn them about the risks of promoting illegal gambling brands. Individuals who advertise unlicensed gambling services face fines of up to AUD 59,400 (US$41,700), while facilitating access to offshore sites can carry penalties as high as AUD 2.4 million (US$1.68 million).
ACMA has also urged overseas regulators to pressure license holders in their jurisdictions that are illegally serving Australian customers.
Despite enforcement efforts, the regulator said offshore operators continue to find influencers willing to promote their content to Australian audiences, one of the world’s most active gambling markets.
