Austria’s long-standing gambling monopoly is once again under scrutiny as the government prepares a new casino tender framework.
The Finance Ministry has confirmed it is drafting legislation ahead of the monopoly renewal process scheduled for 2027.
Industry operators are using the moment to intensify calls for structural reform.
They argue the existing model is outdated and harmful to both consumers and tax revenues.
Government Draft Signals Regulatory Overhaul
A spokesperson for the Finance Ministry confirmed work is underway on a draft law.
The proposal will form the basis of the upcoming tender process.
It includes “uniform player protection standards” across online and land-based gambling.
Plans also feature age-dependent loss limits and the creation of an independent gambling authority.
The ministry has outlined stricter enforcement against unlicensed operators.
Measures include payment blocking, domain blocking, and substantial financial penalties.
Leaked Reform Plans Sparked Backlash
In December, a leaked draft appeared to reinforce the monopoly model.
That proposal paired continued exclusivity with aggressive action against foreign operators. Suggested tools included undercover test plays and tighter advertising restrictions.
The response from industry stakeholders was swift and critical. Following the backlash, the government claimed the leaked draft would be revised.
Political Signals Leave Door Open To Change
Last year, Austria’s three-party coalition hinted at reform. Its coalition agreement promised a “further development” of the gambling monopoly.
Observers interpreted the language as leaving room for a broader market opening.
The timing is significant, with the current monopoly licence nearing expiry.
Monopoly Structure Nears Expiry
Austria currently issues a single licence for lotteries and online gambling.
That 15-year permit is held by Win2day, a subsidiary of Casinos Austria. Casinos Austria also controls all 12 land-based casino licences.
The state holding company ÖBAG owns a 33% stake in Casinos Austria. Six offline casino licences and the online licence are due to expire in 2027. The remaining six land-based licences will expire in 2030.
Industry Warns Of Revenue Risks
Operators warn that a hardline monopoly approach could backfire. OVWG president Simon Priglinger-Simader cautioned against premature enforcement.
“Payment blocking should only come after licensing,” he said.
“Otherwise, you don’t get what you need from a budget perspective.”
He argues unregulated players would simply migrate to the black market.
Calls Grow For Multi-Licence System
Industry leaders continue to push for liberalisation.
Admiral CEO Monika Racek says the monopoly fuels illegal gambling.
“The monopoly is leading to an ever-growing black market where players enjoy no protection whatsoever,” Racek says.
“There are no player bans, no limits and no control.” She believes a multi-licence framework would restore oversight and consumer safety.
Entain has echoed similar views, backing an open licensing system.
Operators argue that a competitive, regulated market would better serve players, regulators, and the state.
