Austria has decided against introducing market competition in favor of maintaining its state-controlled online gambling model. When the present online casino license expires in 2027, the new coalition government, which is made up of the Liberal Party (NEOS), the Social Democrats (SPÖ), and the People’s Party (ÖVP), plans to issue a single 15-year license. This choice runs counter to previous predictions that Austria will allow several providers to operate in the industry.
Independent Gambling Authority Proposed
To prevent conflicts of interest, the government plans to introduce an independent gambling authority. This body would take over online and land-based casino licensing, removing oversight from the Finance Ministry, which owns a 33.3% stake in Casinos Austria. However, implementing this regulatory shift before the next licensing period could prove difficult and may face legal complications.
Casinos Austria currently holds Austria’s exclusive online casino license through its Win2Day platform. The company, which also monopolizes land-based casinos, operates the country’s lottery system through Austrian Lotteries, managing 5,000 retail locations. Industry organizations, including the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA), have long advocated for a competitive market, arguing that a monopoly limits innovation and player choice.
The government also plans to tighten restrictions on unlicensed operators by enhancing site and payment blocking measures. Additionally, a tax hike on gambling revenue is under discussion, with rates potentially rising from 2% to 5%.
Authorities are also considering centralizing sports betting regulations at the national level. However, opposition from Austria’s federal states could delay or block this reform.
Meanwhile, a Maltese Civil Court ruling has challenged Austria’s monopoly system. The court refused to enforce Austrian judgments that ordered refunds to players who had gambled on unlicensed sites. It ruled that Austria’s restrictions contradict European Union law, which supports the free movement of services across member states.
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