The Best Online Casinos for Australia Travelers and Expats in 2022 – The Denver Post
If you’re an Australian on holiday abroad, or an expat living in a remote region, it can be difficult to find a brick and mortar casino to play pokies and popular Australian casino games.
That’s where online casinos and pokies sites come in, but finding the best options with good bonuses, fair odds, and Australian casino games can be tricky.
To help out, we made this online casinos list for Australians living in the Americas, EU, or areas outside Australia where there may not be access to the traditional brick and mortar pokies.
We tested over a dozen of these online casinos against 5 benchmarks including fairness, game selection, bonuses, banking methods, and licenses, and sorted them from best to worst below. Whether you are a seasoned bettor or a beginner looking to dip your hands into the world of online pokies for the first time, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s begin!
Best Online Casinos Australia Players Can Use Abroad
1. Red Dog Casino – Best Overall
Pros:
- 200+ online casino games
- 24/7 customer support via phone, email, and live chat
- Large online pokies bonuses
- Highly secure Australian casino operator
- 255% welcome bonus on first deposit
Cons:
- Relatively new online casino
- The minimum withdrawal amount is too high
With exceptional graphics, compelling casino bonus offers, and solid customer service, Red Dog Casino is truly one of the online casinos for Aussie travelers that stands out from the rest.
Game Selection: 4.9/5
If online pokies are your bag, you’ll find over 200 of them here — more than enough to keep you entertained for hours on the road.
They also offer 12 different types of video poker, 8 blackjack variants, and a fun bingo game if you get tired of spinning the reels and playing table games, so you should never get bored here.
The only real drawback we found here was the lack of live dealer casino games, but since most of those are broadcast from studios in Europe, they won’t do much for your homesickness, anyway.
Bonuses & Promotions: 5/5
Apart from its wide selection of casino games, what this Australian casino is most famous for is its handsome welcome bonus. Red Dog Casino takes pride in offering its players not only a 255% deposit bonus but also a 24/7 casino bonus later.
The welcome bonus also comes with 35 free spins on the popular “Sweet 16” pokie, and it has a modest 35x playthrough requirement. It shouldn’t take you long at all to earn the bonus money.
Banking Options: 4.5/5
You won’t find a ton of options on their cashier page, but the choices you will find cover pretty much every end of the financial spectrum. Credit card users can deposit with Visa or Mastercard, crypto enthusiasts can use Bitcoin or Ethereum, and everyone else can opt for e-wallets or prepaid services like Neosurf or BPay.
However, the minimum withdrawal amount is $150, which may be too high for some players. You’ll need to hit it big (or cash in a sizable deposit bonus) to get your money off the site.
2. Ignition – Best for Poker and Blackjack
Pros:
- Top-notch poker tables
- High-traffic poker tournaments
- 32 live casino games
- 24/7 customer service
Cons:
- No E-wallet payment methods
If you’re an Aussie expat and you miss your weekly poker night with your mates, then Ignition is your best bet (pun intended).
With excellent deposit bonuses, flexible buy-ins, and top-notch customer support, it’s tough not to consider Ignition as your new online gambling home.
Game Selection: 4.8/5
Ignition gives its players over 280 different game choices from across a huge range of categories. Online pokies are the most substantial category, with nearly 100 of those, but they offer other casino games, including blackjack, poker, rummy, and more.
It’s the poker menu that really sets this Australian online casino apart, though. They have some innovative options, including anonymous tables (to discourage the use of sketchy tracking software), fun knockout tournaments that reward you for busting other players, and zone poker, in which you get a new hand immediately after folding.
Ignition may not be able to perfectly replicate the experience of taking cash off your drunken buddies — but your home game probably doesn’t offer a monthly tournament with a million-dollar prize pool, either.
Bonuses & Promotions: 4.6/5
You need to read the fine print to fully understand the bonus offer here. The site’s homepage will proudly tout their “$3,000 welcome bonus,” but it’s not quite that simple.
That bonus is actually a 150% deposit match up to $1,500 that you can redeem on both the casino and poker sides — but only if you deposit with Bitcoin. If you deposit with fiat currency, it becomes a 100% match up to $1,000 on either side, making it $2,000 in total.
We don’t have an issue with the amount of bonus they dole out, but it would be nice if the offer wasn’t so convoluted and confusing.
Banking Options: 4.5/5
Ignition also offers players the convenience of choosing from nine banking methods to deposit or withdraw real money. These are mainly the old standbys, such as vouchers, credit cards, or Zelle.
They also push Bitcoin and Bitcoin Cash pretty hard, as evidenced by the fine print on their bonus offers.
However, you won’t find any e-wallet options here, which may be frustrating for those who aren’t on the crypto train and also don’t like using their credit card at online casinos.
3. Bitstarz — Best Bitcoin Casino Australia
Pros:
- Accepts 7 different cryptocurrencies
- Over 2K online pokies on tap
- Variety of fun pokie tournaments
- 50+ provably fair games
Cons:
- 2.5% fee on some deposit methods
- Difficult to qualify for VIP program
One of the foremost crypto gambling sites on the internet, Bitstarz manages to be an excellent all-around casino; not just a place to spend your Bitcoin at.
It sets itself apart with all of the fun ways it lets you experience your favorite online pokies, which should be enough to keep you coming back again and again.
Game Selection: 5/5
There are more than 3,200 different games on tap here, with over 2,000 of those being pokies. While that’s certainly enough to keep even the most insatiable gambler occupied, Bitstarz does more than just throw a giant catalog of games at you.
They also present those games in a fun and interesting ways, such as the three different pokies tournaments they run every week. This keeps things fresh while giving competitive bettors someone other than the house to take aim at.
You’ll also find about 50 “provably fair” games; as the name suggests, these are titles that have had their fairness to the player verified. Does that mean you’ll win? No, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off, these are about the safest games you’ll find anywhere — both on and off the internet.
Bonuses & Promotions: 4.5/5
The deposit bonus here is a bit convoluted, but that doesn’t make it any less rewarding. It’s billed as a “5 BTC” promo (with 180 free spins thrown in as a cherry on top), and while that’s true, it’s also not the whole story.
It would take four separate deposits to earn the bonus, and each deposit would break down like this:
- 1st deposit: 100% match up to 1 BTC, plus all 180 free spins
- 2nd deposit: 50% match up to 1 BTC
- 3rd deposit: 50% match up to 2 BTC
- 4th deposit: 100% match up to 1 BTC
As you can see, it takes a lot of effort (and money) to qualify for the entire welcome bonus. If you’re going to be playing that much anyway, though, it’s well worth it.
They also have a VIP program that offers things like a dedicated account manager, special deposit bonuses, and more — but getting in isn’t easy. You either have to choose the VIP casino bonus code on your very first deposit, or you have to gamble so much that you catch the attention of one of their managers.
Banking Options: 4.3/5
Despite representing itself as a crypto-first casino, Bitstarz only accepts deposits in silver dollars — which have to be delivered via armored stagecoach.
We’re kidding, of course — this site accepts 7 different cryptocurrencies, including Litecoin, Tron, Dogecoin, and Ethereum.
They also accept a variety of fiat currencies (digitally, so leave your stagecoach in the garage). Be careful when making a deposit with your credit card, though, as those transactions are subject to a 2.5% fee.
4. Joe Fortune Casino – Best Pokies Site with an Australian Theme
Pros:
- Jackpots regularly reach 6 figures
- Live chat available for support
- Comprehensive instructions for beginners
Cons:
- Large fees on some withdrawals
- Small casino bonuses
If you are new to the world of online gambling, then Joe Fortune is exactly the place you want to start with. With Joe Fortune Casino and their comprehensive instructions by your side, you’ll have someone to guide you about the rules of online gambling every step of the way.
It’s also a smaller online casino, which can work in your favour if you feel overwhelmed every time you go to one of the larger sites. You may not want to stick around Joe Fortune forever, but there may not be a better online casino for getting your feet wet.
Game Selection: 4/5
Let’s start with the elephant in the room: Joe Fortune doesn’t have a lot of games in its library. There are only around 300 total, with roughly 280 of those being online pokies. If you’re looking to be immersed in a sea of games, that won’t happen here.
What they can offer, though, is quality. There are fun titles like “Scrooge Megaways” or “Guardians of Ice and Fire,” both of which have gorgeous (albeit a bit cartoonish) graphics.
If you prefer progressive jackpot pokies, give “777 Deluxe” or “Reels and Wheels XL” a spin — their prizes regularly reach six figures. There are even, ahem, mature pokies like “A Night with Cleo,” if you’re in the mood for something spicy.
So no, you won’t be overwhelmed with choices — but go ahead and try to tell us you have something better to do than spend a night with Cleo. We’ll wait.
Bonuses & Promotions: 3.9/5
Like many other casinos, Joe Fortune has separate casino bonuses for crypto and fiat currency users, although they are a bit on the smaller side.
Bitcoin users can snag a 150% deposit match up to $750 along with 30 free spins, while traditionalists will have to make do with a 100% match up to $500 (and those 30 free spins).
Banking Options: 4.4/5
All the bases are covered here, with credit cards, 5 different cryptocurrencies, and a few alternatives all available. There’s nothing really to write home about — but nothing to get outraged over, either.
Be careful how you get your money off the site, though, as there are some hidden fees you could encounter. For example, if you use a Visa debit card, the first transaction each month is free — but each one after that will be hit with a $50 fee. Ouch.
5. PlayAmo – Best VIP Program for AUS Players Abroad
Pros:
- 10-tiered VIP Program
- Massive selection of games
- Nearly 4 dozen live dealer options
Cons:
- May be difficult for beginners to navigate
- High wagering requirement
What makes PlayAmo truly stand out from the rest is its ten-tiered VIP loyalty program that gives multiple rewards to its online casino players based on their level of activity.
By earning adequate points, you get to advance to a higher VIP level where you get the opportunity to earn even better prizes — including a true showstopper (more on that in a minute).
Game Selection: 5/5
You’ll find more than 3,500 different games to explore here — and “only” 1,600 of them are online pokies, making this online casino a great choice for gamblers who want to do more than just spin some reels. There are a dozen blackjack variants here, 15 types of video poker, and even keno and baccarat.
The most impressive part might be their live dealer selection, though. They have over 40 live tables running at any time, so if you’re looking for some human interaction while you’re trekking across remote parts of the globe, you can find it here.
Bonuses & Promotions: 3.7/5
The welcome bonus is very similar to Joe Fortune’s, which isn’t necessarily a good thing. Expect to only be eligible for a 100% bonus match up to $500, along with 100 free spins, on your first deposit.
However, the worst part isn’t the size of the bonus — it’s the size of the wagering requirement. At 50x, it’s larger than the industry standard, and you may wonder if it’s worth it to play that much for such a small bonus.
While their efforts to lure in new players need some work, we can’t say the same about their ability to retain them. Their VIP program gives you tangible rewards for climbing the ladder, mostly in the form of free spins or free cash.
However, if you reach tier 10 — the “godlike” tier — you’ll get a very special prize indeed: a Ferrari 488 GTB. How’s that for a loyalty bonus?
Now, reaching godlike status will be no easy feat, as it requires 5 million player points — but it’s nice to dream, isn’t it?
Banking Options: 4.7/5
There are a dozen ways to fund your account, half of which are cryptocurrencies, so you shouldn’t lack for options. They also accept e-wallets and bank transfers, if you prefer more conventional ways to move your money.
How We Chose the Best Australian Online Casinos for Aussie Players Abroad
All the online casinos in Australia for travelers on our list go through a rigorous evaluation process based on a number of aspects as we decide which online casinos are the best, and which should be avoided at all costs.
While sorting out our top picks, we chose online gambling sites that not only hold valid legal gambling licenses but also adhere to the highest quality of fair gameplay with the use of industry-standard encryption protocols.
There are a number of factors that we assess when reviewing an online casino before giving any platform our seal of approval, including:
Fairness:
During our evaluation process, we checked a number of Australian online casino sites for travelers to make sure that they offer reasonable wagering requirements and have safe and transparent user terms.
Gambling sites must have certifications from independent gaming labs and should be as transparent as possible about how their odds work to show their users that their games are completely fair. This way, whether you win or lose, you can be certain that you were dealt a fair game where the odds were not ‘rigged’ against you.
Variety:
We ensure that we only select online Australian casinos for travelers that have a wide range of choices available to them so that they can play as many games as they like. The top online casinos should have a broad game suite with a range of different online pokies and other casino games that offer a little something for every user.
User Experience:
An exceptional user experience is important when it comes to ranking the top Australian online casinos. The best Aussie online casinos will not only offer responsive round-the-clock customer support through multiple channels but also provide themes and popular games that enhance your overall user experience.
We also made sure to prioritize those sites that offer payment methods preferred by Australian nationals over those that do not.
Bonuses:
The bigger the welcome bonuses Australian casino sites for travelers offer, the higher they rank on our list. The top casino sites offer the most attractive and regular bonuses to their users with reasonable and transparent wagering requirements.
Best Australian Online Casinos for Expats and Travelers – FAQ
Are Online Casinos Safe and Legal for Australians Outside the Country?
The legality of this question will depend on a variety of factors, including where in the world you happen to be at the time. We advise you to check your local laws before doing any online gambling.
As for the safety of Australian online casinos, that depends on the site you choose to play on. Every site on this list is licensed and regulated, so you can be confident that it’s safe to enjoy.
Are Online Pokies Rigged?
Not if you play at a reputable site, no. Online pokie games use something called a “random number generator” (RNG) to make sure that each spin is truly fair and random.
At reputable online casinos, each pokie’s RNG is regularly audited by a third party to ensure that it’s working properly. You may not get those kinds of assurances at a shady website, so it’s best to stick to trustworthy options like the ones on this list.
How Do I Make a Deposit and Withdraw Real Money at Australian Online Casinos from Abroad?
Deposit and withdrawal methods depend on the online casino you choose. Usually, you can use credit cards, debit cards, bank wires, e-wallets, and in some cases, even cryptocurrency wallets to deposit and withdraw real money from online casinos.
However, some online casinos may not offer all these payment options. There may also be a minimum deposit amount and a maximum withdrawal amount depending on the casino.
What Kinds of Games Are Available at Online Casinos in Australia?
Typically, at most Australian online casinos, you will find all the casino games you would normally find at a physical casino and more. Pokies tend to be the most popular, and are available pretty much everywhere, but you’ll also find blackjack, poker, bingo, and more.
How Easy Is It to Play at Australian Online Casinos While Traveling?
Gambling online while on the go is easier than it ever has been before. Almost every site has been mobile-optimized to work perfectly on a mobile phone or tablet, so you should be able to hit the tables whenever the mood strikes — no matter where on the planet you happen to be at the time.
What Is the Best Online Casino for Australian Travelers?
There are dozens of Australian casinos out there, each offering something unique, so it really depends upon what you are looking for at a particular platform.
Is the number of casino games on hand the most important factor for you? If so, we’d recommend PlayAmo or Bitstarz. Do you want to play live poker rather than video pokies? In that case, consider Ignition — it has fantastic action at all hours of the day.
Of course, if you’re looking for the best all-around online gambling experience, we think you can’t go wrong with Red Dog. It’s our top pick for a reason.
Also, remember that there’s no law saying you have to pick one and stick with it. Why not give several a try and see which one you like best?
How Aussie Travelers and Expats Can Get Started at Australian Online Casinos
You have enough to worry about while on the road, so dealing with a cumbersome sign-up process probably isn’t high on your list of priorities.
Fortunately, it’s incredibly easy to get up and running, and we’ll show you how (using Red Dog as an example).
1. Visit the Casino’s Website
If you go to Red Dog’s homepage and look in the upper-right-hand corner, you’ll see the sign-up button, so go ahead and click it to get started.
After you click it, a window will pop up asking you for some personal information. There are three screens in all here, so make sure you fill out each of them before proceeding (don’t worry — the questions are easy and straightforward).
2. Go to Your Email
Head on over to the email address you provided in the sign-up documents. You should see a welcome email from Red Dog; if not, check your spam folder or anywhere else it might be hiding.
Once you locate the email, open it. There should be a validation link inside. Click the link to confirm your account, and a page will automatically open that takes you back to the Red Dog site (with confirmation that everything worked out smoothly).
3. Make Your Initial Deposit
Now that everything is confirmed, it’s time to put some money in your account and hit the tables. All you have to do is pick your preferred deposit method, decide how much you want to put on your account, and give them the relevant details.
Oh, and don’t forget the bonus code!
For Aussies on Holiday, These Are the Best Online Casinos to Feel Like You’re at an Australia Casino
Just because you’re traveling the world and taking in all the sights doesn’t mean that you’ll lose your itch to gamble. The sites on this list are perfect for the Aussie on the go, as they provide all the comforts of your local casino or pokie house — without forcing you to leave your hotel.
We encourage you to pick one or two of the above casinos and play to your heart’s content, but remember to gamble responsibly and set loss limits. After all, you’ll need some money to get back home.
DISCLAIMER: Gambling is extremely risky. Bet at your own risk. Don’t spend funds you can’t afford to lose. Gambling for underage players is illegal. This guide is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only, we take no responsibility for loss of funds made on any of these sites. Some casino sites may not be accessible where you’re located. Always check local rules and policies in your region before signing up in any online casino.
If you believe you may have a gambling problem, reach out to www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
or call 1-800-858-858.
The news and editorial staffs of The Denver Post had no role in this post’s preparation.
