Austria could be heading toward one of the biggest changes in its gambling market in decades after a leaked draft law suggested the country may finally move away from its long-standing online casino monopoly system.
According to details, the proposal would allow multiple operators to enter Austria’s online gambling market instead of maintaining the current monopoly held by win2day, the platform operated by Österreichische Lotterien. However, the draft also outlines strict conditions for future licensees and a tougher enforcement regime targeting unlicensed operators.
The proposed framework reportedly includes strong player protection measures, such as mandatory loss limits linked to player age, stricter responsible gambling controls and enhanced compliance requirements for operators. The draft also calls for the creation of an independent gambling regulator to oversee both online and land-based gambling activities.
At the same time, authorities are considering aggressive action against offshore operators. Measures discussed in the draft include payment blocking, domain blocking and significant financial penalties for companies operating without approval in Austria.
Austria’s gambling market has long been criticised by industry groups for relying on a monopoly model while many international operators continue to serve Austrian customers through licences issued in other European jurisdictions. Supporters of liberalisation argue that the current structure has fuelled the growth of the black market and reduced consumer protection.
The leaked proposal appears to mark a major shift compared to an earlier draft circulated in late 2025, which largely supported keeping the monopoly in place. That earlier version drew criticism from operators and trade bodies, leading government officials to indicate that revisions would follow.
The timing is significant because Austria’s current gambling licences are due to expire in 2027, increasing pressure on lawmakers to finalise a new regulatory direction. Industry observers believe the next two years could determine whether Austria adopts a competitive licensing model similar to other European markets or continues with a tightly controlled monopoly structure.
While the Austrian Finance Ministry has not officially confirmed the full contents of the leaked draft, officials have previously acknowledged that reforms are being prepared as part of the upcoming licensing process.