Regulatory authority in Australia prohibits operation of forecasting platform Polymarket in the country
In a move to maintain strict regulations on online gambling, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has banned Polymarket, a hybrid platform that combines gambling and cryptocurrency, from operating in Australia. The ban was enforced on August 15, 2025, following a series of warnings issued by ACMA due to Polymarket's illegal targeting of Australian users through TikTok advertisements.
The ban on Polymarket is part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal online gambling in Australia. The four other sites ordered to be blocked include Slot Mafia, Top Aussie Pokies, and Spinanga, bringing the total number of banned websites in Australia to 1296.
The reason for the ban is rooted in Polymarket's promotion of its platform to Australian consumers through TikTok ads, which violated Australia's strict regulations on online gambling advertising and unauthorized gambling services. ACMA had previously issued a formal warning to Polymarket on July 2, 2025, indicating non-compliance before moving to block the site.
Polymarket is a predictions platform that allows customers to bet on markets by predicting the outcomes of various events, such as political elections and sports. The services provided by Polymarket are considered illegal in Australia.
This action demonstrates Australia’s firm regulatory stance on unlicensed online gambling platforms and advertising practices that contravene domestic gambling laws. The ACMA continues to regulate sports betting and online gambling in Australia to protect Australian users from illegal online gambling activities.
It's important to note that the ban does not affect Polymarket's operations in other countries where it is legal. Steve (Ziv) Chen, who is associated with COMPLETE iGAMING, one of the banned gambling operators, may continue to offer his services in regions where they are permitted.
Australia joins France, Switzerland, and Belgium in taking action against Polymarket. The ban is intended to safeguard the interests of Australian users and maintain the integrity of the country's online gambling industry.
- Despite its operations being legal in other countries, the ban on Polymarket in Australia is aimed at safeguarding the interests of Australian users and maintaining the integrity of the country's online gambling industry.
- The ACMA continues to regulate sports betting and online gambling in Australia, with a firm focus on protecting users from illegal activities, as demonstrated by the ban on Polymarket and other sites offering sports-betting services.
