Best Online Casino Games in Australia for 2024

Choosing the best games and bets in an online casino can be challenging. With so many excellent options available, which ones offer the most exciting experience, best value, and highest chance of winning?

This guide aims to answer these questions and more. We explore the most popular online casino games in Australia and their key variations. Our goal is to help you get started and guide you towards the best choices for your needs when playing online casino games for real money.

What Criteria Do We Use to Evaluate Top Online Casino Games?

We consider various factors in evaluating an online casino game or provider’s quality. These include:

• Adaptability to Mobile Devices: Considering the widespread use of mobile gaming, we assess how well a casino game or provider adapts to mobile interfaces. We review the quality of the mobile site and the availability of mobile applications to ensure a seamless gaming experience on handheld devices.
• Lavish Welcome Offers: We evaluate the quality and terms of the welcome offers casinos provide to new players to ensure their value.
• Selection of Incentives: We also analyze the variety and quality of ongoing incentives and perks offered by the casino. This includes reloading bonuses, free spins, loyalty programs, and other rewards to keep players engaged.
• Swift Customer Support: Quick and competent customer care is crucial for handling issues, answering questions, and providing help. We assess the speed and efficiency of a casino’s customer support system, including their availability through various contact methods.
• Wide Variety of Slot Machines and Card Games: We consider the variety and quality of games in a casino crucial. We evaluate the range of slot machines and card games, their themes, features, and overall fun factor. A wide selection ensures players can find their favourite games.
• High Visual Quality: High visual quality enhances the gaming experience and immerses players in the online gambling environment. We carefully review the visual elements of the games and the user interface to ensure they meet modern standards and provide an enjoyable gaming experience.

Popular Online Casino Games

Before online casinos, land-based venues featured a selected range of popular casino games that ensured both profits for the casino and entertainment for the players. The rise of online casinos in the mid-1990s marked a significant shift, sparking a technology-driven evolution in the casino game industry. Many gaming software companies have since emerged to meet the demand for innovative and engaging games from an enthusiastic audience.

Online casinos are no longer just about traditional table games that mainly attract middle-aged professional men. The average online casino now offers many exciting options to suit different preferences. People of all genders, ages, financial statuses, and goals visit online casinos to play games that spark their interest. Besides real money table games, popular slots, jackpot slots, and instant play specialty games like bingo, lotto, and scratch cards are widely available, with new games being launched every day.

Online Slot Machines

Online slot machines, known as pokies, are very popular in the Australian gaming industry. Despite their apparent simplicity, pokies come in various forms, including 3-reel, 4-reel, and 5-reel digital slot machines, as well as video reels.

These games usually feature specific themes like sports, historical events, animated characters, or video games. Due to their simplicity, no special skills are needed to play.

One of the attractive features of pokies is the bonus features. Because of their popularity, many casinos offer special promotions and free spins to their loyal and new customers as part of a Welcome Bonus.

If you want tips on enhancing your online pokie experience, check out our Pokie page. Our online slot games feature engaging visuals and user-friendly gameplay.

Despite the range of themes and gameplay styles, all pokies have certain features that determine their payouts:

• Pokie volatility. Also known as ‘variance,’ this refers to the size, frequency, and risk of slot game payouts. Pokies are categorized into low, medium, and high-volatility games. High-volatility games pay out less often, but the rewards are significant. Low volatility pokies, on the other hand, offer smaller but more frequent payouts. Progressive jackpot pokies typically have high variance in terms of jackpot winnings.
• Slot Machine RTP. RTP (Return to Player Percentage) indicates the amount of wagered money a slot machine will return to players over time. Most slots have approximately 95% – 96% RTP. However, this doesn’t imply that for every $100 bet, you’ll get back $95. RTP is an estimate based on numerous spins, hence your actual wins or losses could vary significantly. Some slots, both online and offline, disclose their RTP data. It’s recommended to opt for games with higher RTPs when possible.

Evolution of Jackpot Pokies

Understanding that pokies can act as standalone games for single players or as interconnected ones for many players is essential. Traditional pokies are commonly played locally to win prizes from the game’s payout table. In contrast, progressive jackpot pokies are open to many players who all contribute and bet towards a shared jackpot. The main difference is that progressive jackpot pokies provide bigger cash rewards. However traditional pokies might give smaller prizes, but they distribute smaller winnings more often.

Online Blackjack

Blackjack, or 21, is a popular game in online and traditional casinos. The goal is to come as close to 21 as possible without going over and beating the dealer’s hand. Unlike poker, you only play against the dealer in blackjack.

Cards with numbers have their face value, while face cards – Jacks, Queens, and Kings – are valued at 10. Aces can be 1 or 11, depending on what’s best for your hand. The main actions in the game are hitting (asking for another card) and stand (stopping drawing cards and ending your turn). Some games may allow splits, but the rules can vary, so it’s important to understand them before playing.

If your hand goes over 21, you lose the game, and the dealer wins, regardless of their hand. Online Blackjack is extremely popular in both physical and online casinos worldwide, and playing online is a great way to improve your skills.

Online Roulette for Casino Lovers in Australia

Roulette is one of the oldest and most popular table games in casinos. No casino, whether online or physical, is complete without the spinning roulette wheel. There are three distinct versions of roulette.

• American roulette differs from the other two types because it has two 0 pockets. The extra 0 gives the house a greater advantage, making this version less profitable for players.
• European roulette, which has a single 0 pocket and a smaller house edge than American Roulette, is the most common version in online casinos. There are many variations of this game available online.
• French Roulette shares the same wheel design and betting options as European Roulette, but its rules differ. It has some rules that favour the player, leading to the smallest house edge of all three versions. Although not all online casinos offer it, players should choose French Roulette if they have the option due to its better odds.

The development of digital games in online casinos has led to innovative changes and exciting variations in gameplay. New online casino table games become more dynamic when played in a video format.

Online Baccarat

Baccarat is a card game that is known for its simplicity and elegance. It is a popular choice in both land-based and online casinos. The game involves two primary hands: the player’s hand and the banker’s hand. Players bet on which hand will have a higher total value or if the two hands will tie. Baccarat is favored for its low house edge and straightforward rules, making it accessible to players of all experience levels. Online versions of Baccarat offer various betting options and often come with immersive graphics and live dealer options for an authentic casino experience.

Online Poker

Online poker is among the most popular casino games, widely available to play for real money or for free. Like roulette, it has various versions providing different gameplay experiences, yet the excitement remains. Bets can be placed even before the game starts.

Online Lotteries

Internet lotteries, like virtual scratch-off games, offer the chance to win cash prizes with small bets. Playing online lotteries can result in significant winnings that could change your life. With the help of the internet, lottery fans can now participate in these draws from the comfort of their homes. Lottery draws usually happen weekly and sometimes daily.

Online Keno

This lottery-like game is simple to play without the need for complex strategies. Online keno has a high house edge, offering a better chance of winning real money. It has a return rate of 94-95%. To win big, you need to choose and match the maximum number of allowed numbers.

Online Craps

Many players prefer online craps because of its lower house advantage. This dice game is not only popular among numerous players, but it also has worldwide popularity. Although replicating craps and other dice games in CGI format is remarkably challenging, the rules for playing craps online are quite simple.

Online Bingo

Forget the old perception of bingo being exclusively for seniors. This game has recently become popular among game lovers. Whether offline or online, the bingo rules are unchanged. The main difference with online bingo is that all actions are conducted on your own device.

Online Sic Bo

Sic Bo is a popular dice game that originated in China. It is often referred to as “Tai Sai” or “Dai Siu.” The game is played with three dice, and the objective is to predict the outcome of the dice rolls. Players can place bets on various combinations, totals, or specific numbers. Sic Bo offers a wide range of betting options, making it a thrilling and unpredictable casino game. It is also available in online casinos, allowing players to enjoy the game from the comfort of their homes.

Online Scratchies (Scratch Cards)

Scratchies, also known as scratch cards or instant win games, are a form of lottery or gambling game that offers immediate results. Players purchase a physical or digital card, which they scratch to reveal hidden symbols or numbers. If the revealed symbols match a specific winning combination, the player wins a prize. Scratchies are simple and quick to play, making them a favorite choice for those looking for instant gratification. Online casinos often feature a variety of virtual scratch cards with different themes and prize levels, adding an element of fun and surprise to the gaming experience. Scratchies are especially popular for their potential for large instant cash wins.

Online Casino Games with Live Dealers

Interactive casino games with live dealers bring a realistic and engaging casino ambience to your home. This is perfect for gamers who want the feel of a real, physical casino but appreciate the comfort of playing at home. Here are the reasons why they are so captivating:

• Live Interaction: Live dealer games enable real-time interaction with a professional dealer, replicating the experience of a traditional casino. This interaction adds a human element to your gaming, making it more exciting and social.
• Gaming Companions: Live dealer games provide the chance to interact and connect with other gamers, fostering community and camaraderie. Whether it’s blackjack, poker, or roulette, you can chat with other players, share strategies, or simply enjoy the social environment.
• Ease of Access: One of the main advantages of live dealer games is their accessibility. These games can be played from your desktop, laptop, tablet, or even your smartphone. All you need is a compatible device and a stable internet connection, allowing you to play from almost anywhere.
• Playing for Real Cash: Live dealer games aren’t just for fun; you can play them for real money. This adds an exciting aspect of potential earnings to your gaming sessions. Live dealer games suit all skill levels, whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner.
• Variety of Games: Live casinos typically offer a wide range of classic games such as blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and poker. This variety ensures you can find a game that suits your preferences and skill level.
• Professionalism and Safety: Live dealer games are managed by trained, professional dealers who maintain high standards of fairness and integrity. Additionally, these games are closely monitored, ensuring the security and fairness of each round or spin.

Top Online Casino Game Developers in Australian Gaming Platforms

Australia’s online casino sector is thriving, offering a variety of engaging and interactive games. The exceptional developers behind these games consistently surpass expectations for innovation and quality. Below are some of the leading online casino game developers impacting the Australian gaming platforms:

• Microgaming: A highly-regarded name in the online casino industry, Microgaming offers a vast range of games including slots, table games, and progressive jackpots. They are renowned for their high standards in game quality and innovation. Their progressive slot, Mega Moolah, is well-known for its life-changing jackpots.
• NetEnt: Known for its visually stunning online pokies, NetEnt, now part of Evolution Gaming, is popular among Australian players with games like Starburst and Gonzo’s Quest. Their live dealer games are also impressive.
• Playtech: A major player in the industry, Playtech is famous for its wide selection of casino games. They provide pokies, table games, and live dealer games. Their superhero-themed slots, especially the Marvel series, are particularly attractive to players.
• Aristocrat: This Australian game developer, Aristocrat, is renowned both locally and internationally for their distinct and entertaining pokies, such as Queen of the Nile and Buffalo.
• Betsoft: Betsoft is acclaimed for its 3D pokies that offer a cinematic gaming experience. Games like the Slotfather series and Sugar Pop are celebrated for their impressive visuals.
• Evolution Gaming: Primarily known for their live dealer games, Evolution Gaming has significantly influenced the live casino industry. They boast various live games, including blackjack, roulette, and game show-styled options.
• Quickspin: Quickspin is known for its appealing pokies with engaging stories. Games like Big Bad Wolf and Sakura Fortune are popular with Australian players.
• iSoftBet: iSoftBet is recognized for its wide range of pokies. They develop everything from classic fruit machines to modern video slots, often partnering with well-known brands for themed games.
• Yggdrasil Gaming: Yggdrasil is praised for its creative and visually impressive pokies. Their games often include unique mechanics and story elements, giving them a distinctive edge.
• Pragmatic Play: Known for their high-quality games including pokies and live dealer titles, Pragmatic Play regularly introduces new offerings.

Guide to Participating in Online Casino Games

Every casino game has its own rules, but to start playing, you first need to register at a casino. This guide will assist you in this process so you can begin your online gaming experience.

• Registration/Sign Up. Once you’ve chosen your casino, the next step is to register. This simply involves filling out a form with your personal information. You don’t have to deposit money or claim a bonus right away, and you can do this after you’ve tried out a few games for free.
• Pick a game you like. Most casinos offer free versions of their games. Use this opportunity to try a game before betting real money. Find a game in the lobby, whether it’s pokies or a table game, choose the demo or ‘play for fun’ mode and try it.
• Learn the rules. Every game has its own rules, including different pokies games. Use the free/demo mode to get familiar with the game and its rules before playing for real money and possibly winning the jackpot!
• Check out bonuses and promotions. Once you’ve learned your chosen game, go to the casino’s promotions section. This section shows all current promotions and bonuses that could increase your balance or offer extra chances to win. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions before accepting a bonus.
• Make a deposit. To play for actual money, you need to deposit funds. Go to your account or click on the Cashier/Deposit option on the casino site. Follow the instructions to deposit money with your preferred banking method. Once the deposit shows in your account, you can start playing for real money.
• Start playing. Go back to the game lobby, select your game, and start playing. Good luck!

Can you play games for free?

As previously hinted, the answer is a definite yes! Most online casino games involving real money also offer a free mode.

Many Australians want to win big but don’t want to risk real money while they learn. Fortunately, most online casinos let players try out games for free before betting. This is likely the best way to learn casino games without accidentally depleting your funds.

Playing with Real Money vs. Free Online Games

When considering online gambling, it’s important to weigh the benefits of playing with real money versus engaging in free games. Free games serve as a great platform for honing skills and exploring a variety of games. However, real money gambling offers the chance of cash prizes, distinct versions of your favourite casino slot and potentially valuable bonuses. You could even hit the jackpot after just one round at high-risk tables. Let’s explore the advantages of each to help determine the best fit for your online casino gaming experience.

What are the benefits of playing with real money?

• Playing with real money allows winning actual cash prizes and regular cashouts.
• Spending real money allows you to participate in loyalty programs and earn rewards.
• Real money games can result in substantial jackpots.

What are the advantages of playing free games?

• They allow you to play games without any potential risks.
• Playing for free means, there’s no need to sign up or register, thus eliminating the need to share personal information.
• Free games give you the chance to try and practice a new game before spending real money on it.

Security and Safety in Casinos

Before setting up an account with any online casino where real money is involved, players should make sure the casino is secure. In essence, when dealing with real money, you want to know it’s being handled professionally! All the sites we recommend are safe, having been thoroughly checked for their gambling licenses, online banking security, and use of encryption software. Here are some factors we consider when assessing a gambling platform’s security:

SSL Encryption

SSL encryption ensures that any information transmitted between your server and the casino is secure and cannot be compromised by hackers. The sites we recommend use 128-bit SSL encryption or higher.

License

Usually, license seals can be found at the bottom of most betting websites’ homepages. These seals indicate that the site has been verified to link to a legitimate license. Audit seals also undergo this verification to guarantee game integrity and transaction safety.

Online Banking Security

Online casinos dealing with real money should offer the most commonly used casino debit cards, credit cards, and cryptocurrency services, ensuring their safety. Choosing e-wallets like PayPal or Skrill provides an extra layer of security, creating a ‘firewall’ between your actual bank funds and your online casino account.

Online Casino Games on Mobile Devices

With the improvements in HTML5 technology, accessing casino games on mobile devices has become quick and simple. This is true for both iPhone and Android smartphone users. Almost half of all casino players now use a handheld device to play games. Online casinos have tailored their platforms to meet the needs of this mobile audience.

The restrictions are very few. All the top casino games, like table games, pokies, instant wins, and card games, can be played on mobile devices just as they would be on a desktop. Players can expect the same features, payouts, and gameplay in mobile casino games as they would in desktop versions.

Gamble Safely

We want you to enjoy casino games, and safety is essential. For more information and resources on safe gambling, see our Safe Gambling page.

The basic rules for safe gambling include:

• Gamble for fun – don’t chase losses or see gambling as a way to increase your income. Enjoy the games for what they are.
• Set personal limits – how long you play, your gambling budget, or a loss limit. By setting these limits, you can have a better experience.

Final Thoughts

Over the past twenty years, online casinos have consistently innovated in the gaming industry. Australia’s online gambling market is packed with various software providers competing to deliver the most exciting online casino games. As a result, these online platforms typically offer a broader range of popular casino games than traditional land-based casinos. It’s common for an online casino to host games from numerous software developers, providing their players with thousands of genuine online casino games.

Furthermore, popular games often have a live dealer version, enabling players to experience live casino games straight from a studio. These games, including live dealer ones, can be played on mobile devices. Select the casino that fits your needs, sign up, and you can start playing Australia’s top casino games in minutes.

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