Australia Cracks Down on Internet Gambling Operators

(Associated Press) - The federal government is introducing new laws to help curb illegal online gambling services based overseas.

A new bill put to parliament on Thursday makes it clear that only people or companies who hold a licence in Australia can offer its products to Australians.

It also prohibits "click to call" in-play betting and gives new powers to Australian Communications and Media Authority so they can enforce new civil penalties and be responsible for the entire complaint handling process.

"The combination of clearer legislation, stronger enforcement measures and awareness-raising activities will assist to ensure Australians are protected from these illegal gambling services," Human Services Minister Alan Tudge said.

The draft laws follow a 2015 review led by former NSW premier Barry O'Farrell, which estimated up to $400 million was being spent on illegal offshore wagering.

The Turnbull government in April accepted 18 of the report's 19 recommendations, with this legislation the first of three stages.