Are prediction markets legal in Australia?
Polymarket and Kalshi both geo-block Australian residents. Sportsbet, TAB, and licensed bookmakers offer event-derivative-style markets under state gambling licenses. Manifold is unrestricted.
- Regulator
- Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA)
- Recommended platforms
- Manifold, Sportsbet (regulated betting)
Detailed overview
Australia's Interactive Gambling Act 2001 prohibits unlicensed offshore operators from offering services to Australian residents. Both Polymarket and Kalshi geo-block AU traffic. Domestic operators offer fixed-odds event betting under state licenses.
Frequently asked questions
Is Polymarket legal in Australia?
Polymarket is not licensed in Australia and geo-blocks Australian IPs. ACMA has the authority to block unlicensed offshore gambling sites.
What are the alternatives in Australia?
Licensed Australian bookmakers like Sportsbet and TAB offer markets on elections, sports, and current events — though they operate as fixed-odds bookmakers rather than peer-to-peer exchanges.
This page is editorial information, not legal advice. Regulations change frequently. Consult a qualified lawyer in your jurisdiction before trading.