When you hear Oceania, what comes to mind? The ocean? Well, you might be right, but that’s not the full picture. Oceania refers to the countries and regions of Australasia, Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia. The countries in this region are Australia, French Polynesia, Hawaii, New Caledonia, Kiribati, Papua New Guinea, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, and Western New Guinea, as well as New Zealand. The largest and most populous country on this list is Australia, which is a major gambling hub and has recorded numerous successes with its gambling policies and has the largest gambling economy in Oceania.

This article looks at the rise of online casinos and the gambling industry on a bigger scale in countries in Oceania. Looking to learn something about online casinos in the region?

About the Laws Guiding Gambling in Oceania

The regulations that support gambling in Oceania are quite strict. For instance, until your casino (land-based or online) is accepted by the official authorities, you cannot be allowed to start offering services. Also, no offshore gambling is allowed, which means gambling companies cannot just buy domains and begin offering their services in these countries.

However, with all these laws, gambling in Oceania is quite the pastime. A recent study published that over 7 million people in this region gamble actively, and a good number of them are in Australia and New Zealand. A more commonplace to access some gambling ships is a cruise ship, which usually houses both land-based casinos and online casinos.

Which Type of Betting is Preferred?

When talking about sports betting in this region, the number of gamblers goes way less than the total number of sports betting apps available. A little over half a million people are consistent sports bettors, yet these select few spend quite a lot on sports betting. About twenty million dollars supposedly pour into the online betting sports and online casino industry in this region every year. Australia and New Zealand are the major countries that house these figures, though, and most of the gambling policies that govern the region are created and enforced by them. Online casinos offer a convenient and accessible way for people to enjoy a wide range of casino games. For example, New Zealand casinos compares different online casinos available in NZ along with best live casinos or which casinos has the best welcome bonus and much more.s

Gambling Laws in New Zealand

As previously mentioned, New Zealand is very strict with its gambling regulations and policies. Whether land based or online, The Gambling Act of 2003 is the principal law that guides all forms of gambling. All gambling businesses must comply with this law before they can start offering any betting services.

In New Zealand, casinos fall into four categories – from class one to class four, in a manner of speaking. This category is decided by the New Zealand Lottery Commission, which sets the maximum turnover and prizes for every casino. Class 1 casinos cannot offer more than $500 as prizes. Class two prizes, however, range from $500 to $5000. These class 2 casinos are not expected to exceed $25000 and are not expected to get local licenses.

Betting Bitcoin in New Zealand is only for the class three and class four casinos, although they need to be licensed. Also, New Zealand does accept any form of gambling promotions, as the law states.

Gambling in Australia

Gambling and all forms of it is a more common activity in Australia than New Zealand. In fact, it has become so common that it is becoming a major public policy issue. Over 80% of the population gamble on various online platforms in the country. Hence, due to this high popularity, the laws here are less strict than they are in New Zealand.

While some general laws apply to the country, some laws differ by state, with Australia having eight states. Hence, you will have to understand the laws that guide gambling in each state before you can begin your gambling business. The difference between state laws is usually the commissions and the governing authorities.

The Interactive Gambling Act of 2001 is the major law that every state follows. Game and betting promotions are controlled by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). Local online casinos must go through this body if they plan to begin gambling services beyond the borders of the country. The average penalty for unlicensed promotions is $110,000 for companies and casinos and $11,000 for individuals. All forms of promotions, be it through the internet or on television and radio stations, are banned.

Interestingly, online poker is totally prohibited and can be played only at certified land-based casinos on tables. Other game types, such as lotteries and bingo, are allowed for online casino businesses which adhere to each state’s rules. The same is true for sports betting apps.

Conclusion

Betting in Oceania is quite a great deal, and this is typified by the structure and measure of regulations that control and maintain its growth. Online casinos are quite the real deal nowadays, but following the laid-down rules and regulations is key. Nevertheless, Oceania is surely a beautiful place to pursue one’s passion for betting and winning day by day!

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