Austria’s coalition government has proposed a new law to break the longstanding monopoly in the online gambling sector, allowing multiple operators to enter the Austrian market starting October 2027. However, according to local media reports, operators that have previously operated without a license may face a mandatory cooling-off period, barring them from immediate market entry.
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Cooling-Off Period And Market Entry
The draft law mandates a cooling-off period for those who’ve been active in Austria’s grey market. As reported by the newspaper Kronen Zeitung, any operator offering services without a proper license in the past 18 months will be temporarily excluded from entering the regulated market. This exclusion period will extend to 24 months starting in 2030. Additionally, companies must resolve any outstanding taxes and rulings related to player compensation. Still, this approach mirrors the Netherlands’ 2021 strategy when it launched its regulated online gambling market. Operators there also faced a wait before applying for licenses, putting those active in the unlicensed market at a disadvantage initially.
Responses From Industry Players
Operators like Casinos Austria, which currently hold a monopoly through its Win2Day brand, are likely to welcome the move. Austrian Lotteries, a subsidiary of Casinos Austria, is currently the only licensed online gaming operator. However, the Austrian Betting and Gaming Association (OVWG) expressed concerns that the cooling-off period could hinder the development of a competitive market, possibly benefiting unlicensed black market operators who have no intention of seeking regulation.
Proposed Regulatory Changes
The draft law introduces measures like adjusted limits for online slot stakes, with the maximum stake reduced to €5 from a proposed €10. Industry players, including Casinos Austria, previously criticized a €2 stake limit. Moreover, player winnings will still be capped at €10,000, contrary to earlier suggestions of a €2,000 limit, and jackpots remain permissible. Players will face a €1,680 weekly deposit limit, with €250 for those under 26. Game design regulations will enforce mandatory breaks and control spin speeds.
Repercussions For Land-Based Casinos
While online gaming undergoes changes, the land-based casino sector will see a tender for 13 licenses, either standalone or in packages. Despite these openings, the market won’t be entirely liberalized. Casinos Austria, a dominant force for nearly 60 years, operates all 12 land-based casino concessions under its exclusive 15-year license. The company’s ownership by the Austrian state through ÖBAG and major stakes by Österreichische Beteiligungs AG and the Czech gaming group Allwyn remains unchanged.
Looking Ahead
Austria’s online gambling market is poised for major change with this draft law. The proposal now awaits further scrutiny and potential amendments before a final version is enacted. As lawmakers work toward implementing the framework, stakeholders will have to navigate these new regulations when the board expectedly meets to finalize the details in early 2027.
Garry Sputnim is a seasoned journalist and storyteller with over a decade of experience in the trenches of global news. With a keen eye for uncovering stories that resonate, Alex has reported from over 30 countries, bringing light to untold narratives and the human faces behind the headlines. Specializing in investigative journalism, Garry has a knack for technology and social justice issues, weaving compelling narratives that bridge tech and humanity. Outside the newsroom, Garry is an avid rock climber and podcast host, exploring stories of resilience and innovation.
