Crackdown on Illegal Online Poker

In a significant legal development, the Australian Federal Court has imposed substantial fines totalling $24.24 million against several entities and individuals for operating illegal online gambling services. This action was announced by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) on July 6, 2026.

The court’s decision targeted operators behind the online poker services named PPPfish, Shuffle Gaming, and Redraw Poker. Brisbane Poker Pty Ltd was hit with a $15 million fine, while individuals Rhys Edward Jones and Brenton Lee Buttigieg were ordered to pay $9 million and $240,000 respectively. This ruling increases the total penalties related to the case to $29.24 million, factoring in an earlier $5 million fine against Diverse Link Pty Ltd in March 2023.

ACMA Chair Nerida O’Loughlin expressed that these penalties mark a crucial victory in the agency’s efforts to curb illegal online gambling. “This decision sends a clear warning that offering online poker to Australians is illegal and there are serious consequences for those who breach the law,” O’Loughlin stated, emphasizing the risks such illegal activities pose to Australians.

Further legal measures included restraining orders against Mr. Jones and Mr. Buttigieg, prohibiting their involvement in any prohibited interactive gambling services for five years. The court also mandated that Mr. Jones and Brisbane Poker cover the legal costs incurred by the ACMA.

This case began following an ACMA investigation initiated in April 2022, which revealed that the implicated services allowed public interaction in online poker using virtual chips that could be bought and sold for real money. The court’s findings and subsequent penalties underscore a firm stance against illegal gambling activities targeting Australian consumers.