The Growth of Online Pokies in Australia
Since the introduction of pokies in 1953, its popularity has blossomed into a AU$100 billion industry. However, the root of its success is due to its ease of availability. In 1998, gaming developer Microgaming created the first online pokies.
Titled, “Cash Splash,” it quickly became a hit among online players, as did pokies in general. Its popularity contributes to 62% of all gaming revenue in Australia. In fact, nearly 600,000 Australians play the pokies on a weekly basis.
The advantages of online pokies involve convenience and cost-effectiveness. Players may log in at any time and enjoy their favourite pokie game at loonieonlineslots.com without having to pay for transportation or other miscellaneous expenditures.
Legal Considerations for Online Pokies
Prior to 2001, the online gambling industry had been relatively unregulated in terms of its operating base and advertising ventures. However, on June 28, 2001 the Australian Commonwealth Parliament passed the Interactive Gambling Act.
The focus of this regulation is on online pokies and other digital gambling operators. The law prohibits the use of advertising or offering “real money” to Aussies. While this act makes it illegal to operate online pokies in Australia, the actual gameplay isn’t illegal. Therefore, Australian citizens may access online pokies without legal ramifications.
The only change experienced in this law is with pokies providers. In order to legally offer an online pokie portal, the site must operate outside of Australia. Because of this, over 2,000 overseas-based websites offer Aussies online gambling services. Online pokies are not licensed or regulated by the Australian government. Therefore, players with complaints cannot seek government assistance. However, the majority of online pokies are licensed by their jurisdictions.
Reputable Online Pokie Software Manufacturers
In the realm of online pokies, game safety and fairness are determined by the gaming software. The three powerhouses in online pokies include: Microgaming, Playtech and RTG. To better understand the validity of online pokies, it’s essential to understand the gaming manufacturers.
Microgaming Software Systems, LTD – This privately held gambling software developer was established in 1994 in the Isle of Man. It’s considered the pioneer of online gaming and the leading provider of online pokies in Australia. Since its introduction, Microgaming has released over 750 games and 1,200 game variants. Its gaming platforms utilise advanced RNG and dynamic network infrastructures.
Playtech, PLC – Founded in 1999, Playtech operates in over 12 countries, with its headquarters in Douglas, Isle of Man. Its stability and advanced security features elevated this software developer into the highest-rated game provider. In fact, the first land-based European casino to go online utilised Playtech as its game provider.
RTG (Real Time Gaming) – Founded in Atlanta, Georgia in 1998, RTG was acquired by Hastings International in 2007. Since then, its operations were moved to Costa Rica; however, the company maintains licensure with its operators. RTG is at the forefront of security and gameplay performance.
The Safety and Security of Online Pokies in Australia
Because online pokies aren’t regulated by the Australian government, many are concerned over its safety. Since online casinos are hosted by offshore entities, players must research pokies prior to playing. Its safety and security is identified by its licensing and encryption methods. Secure online casinos encrypt data by converting it into secret codes known as ciphertext. This protects sensitive information from being intercepted by third parties.
When it comes to ensuring gameplay fairness, players must confirm the site is Certified Fair Gambling. Review the site’s terms and conditions to uncover its level of certification. To prevent being scammed, only deal with pokies that feature a stable payout percentage. In the pokie terms and conditions page, locate the site’s payout regulations. Avoid online pokies with “variable payouts,” as this may result in percentages dropping too low for fair gameplay experiences.
The Most Trusted Online Casinos for Aussies
Casino Tropez – Click to Play!
Powered by Playtech software, Casino Tropez is owned by Global Interest Gaming, LTD. Headquartered at the Island of Antigua, Casino Tropez is fully licensed and regulated by the Gaming Commission of Barbuda and Antigua. This is one of the top sites for playing online pokies in Australia. All transactions are fully encrypted. Total game payouts average at 97.2%; however, certain games may feature higher percentages. Casino Tropez carries two certifications: TST and Kahnawake Gaming Commission certifications for fair game play.
Europa Casino – Click to Play!
Europa is owned by the respected Casino Partners Group and features licensing by the Antigua and Barbuda governments. As with the best casinos, all transactions are fully encrypted and secured via Turbo SSL certificates. Europa Casino features a 97.28% payout percentage; however, some games feature up to 97.9% payout percentages. Europa is audited by TST (Technical Systems Testing) on a monthly basis and features the UK Gambling Commission fairness certification.
Cool Cat Casino – Click to Play!
Cool Cat Casino is powered by Real Time Gaming and certified via monthly audits by the Technical System Testing. It features affiliations with Central Disputes System and Casino Master for optimum gameplay and fairness. Cool Cat Casino is owned by Wisol International and is certified by the UK Gambling Commission. The average casino-wide payout rate is 96.2% -98.6%. All transactions are encrypted via 128-bit SSL.
Titan – Click to Play!
Titan Casino is part of the Euro Partners Network, and is licensed by the Antigua and Barbuda Financial Services Regulatory Commission. Its gaming software is powered by Playtech. All games meet international standards for safe gameplay. Its payout percentage is over 98% for all games. Transactions are encrypted via a 128-bit SSL certificate.
7 Sultans – Click to Play!
Founded in 1998 by the Fortune Lounge Group, its games are eCogra certified and powered by Microgaming. Its eCogra certification ensures fair gameplay and it features a 95.9% combined payout percentage. Payout percentages may vary based upon games. Its 128-bit SSL security certificate encrypts all data transactions. Visit one of the finest casinos for online pokies in Australia.