Goodbye Monopoly: Austria to Accelerate Multi‑Licensing Plan

(AsiaGameHub) –   Austria is on the verge of enacting one of the most substantial overhauls to its gambling industry in decades, with a new draft law set to introduce a regulated online casino market featuring multiple operators.

This proposal, originating from the Austrian Finance Ministry, signals a definitive departure from the nation’s long-standing monopoly system by establishing a licensing framework that will permit several companies to operate legally within the online gambling sphere.

Lotteries to Remain a Monopoly, While Casinos Will Offer Multiple Licenses

According to a leaked draft reviewed by iGB, the future of online gambling in Austria will involve „several providers“ operating under a „strictly regulated licensing system.“

The ministry’s stated objective is to steer players away from illicit platforms and to guarantee „the highest possible standards of player protection.“

Currently, Austria’s online gambling landscape is dominated by a single license held by Austrian Lotteries, operating under its Win2day brand, which also functions in conjunction with Casinos Austria.

The new proposal intends to maintain the lottery sector as a monopoly but will open up online casino licenses to multiple operators for the first time. These licenses will initially be granted for a period of five years, with the possibility of an extended renewal.

However, market entry may come with a significant financial commitment, as operators might be required to resolve outstanding legal disputes and repay back taxes for prior activities in Austria. Experts suggest this condition could restrict participation to larger international corporations.

The draft also mandates stringent consumer protection measures. Key provisions include weekly deposit limits of EUR 250 ($290) for players under 26 and EUR 1,680 ($1,949) for older players, alongside strict betting limits of EUR 2 ($2,32) per spin or game.

Furthermore, maximum winnings are set to be reduced, and jackpot games will be completely prohibited. The draft also incorporates mandatory cooling-off periods following prolonged gaming sessions.

Industry Sentiment: „More Hopeful Than Ever“

Industry observers view these reforms, despite their strictness, as a crucial step towards market liberalization.

While the current monopoly license is set to expire in 2027, potential delays and legal challenges could extend the transition period, with a fully established regulatory authority not anticipated until approximately 2030.

Simon Priglinger Simader, president of the ÖVWG trade association, expressed that the prevailing sentiment is „feeling more hopeful than ever,“ while acknowledging that several critical details still require resolution.

For the time being, Austria’s gambling sector appears to be entering a prolonged and carefully managed transition phase, aiming to balance market opening with some of the most rigorous consumer protection regulations in Europe.