Austria's gambling regulatory framework is drawing criticism from the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA), which describes it as "outdated" and one of only two monopolies remaining in the European Union, alongside Poland.
According to the EGBA, this system not only lags behind modern European standards but also undermines consumer protection, regulatory oversight, and tax revenue generation.
The EGBA has urged Austria to adopt a multi-licensing system for online casino gaming, a model successfully implemented in 21 EU countries, including Denmark and Sweden. By transitioning to this system, Austria could address the unregulated nature of much of its online gambling market, where players often resort to offshore platforms. EGBA Secretary General Maarten Haijer stated, “The evidence from across Europe is clear: multi-licensing works. It protects consumers, generates tax revenue, and modernizes the industry.”
Countries like Denmark have seen regulated market shares increase from 72% to 90% since adopting multi-licensing in 2012. The EGBA estimates that Austria could generate up to €1 billion in additional tax revenue by 2030 by implementing a similar framework. The proposal includes consumer protection measures such as self-exclusion systems, responsible gambling tools, and an independent gambling authority with strong enforcement powers.
This call for reform coincides with Austria’s ongoing coalition talks following the September 29 general election. Chancellor Karl Nehammer of the People’s Party (ÖVP) is tasked with forming the first three-way coalition since 1955, alongside the Social Democrats (SPÖ) and liberal Neos. The EGBA sees this as a golden opportunity for the new government to modernize Austria's gambling laws and align them with EU best practices.
The Austrian Association for Betting and Gambling (OVWG) has also highlighted the urgent need for reform. In September, the Supreme Court ruled that unlicensed operators could reclaim winnings paid to Austrian players before regulatory frameworks were established. This decision, according to OVWG President Claus Retschitzegger, underscores the necessity of clear and fair rules to protect players and maintain the integrity of the gambling system.
Austria’s gambling sector is at a crossroads. With mounting pressure from industry stakeholders and proven success stories from neighboring countries, the time for reform is now. Modernizing the regulatory framework could bring unregulated gambling activity into the legal market, protect consumers, and secure substantial economic benefits.
