An Australian lawmaker, Senator David Leyonhjelm, has initiated an internet-based poll to assess public sentiment regarding the nation’s prohibition on internet poker. This action is part of a broader endeavor to reverse the legislation that essentially criminalized the provision of online poker services within Australia.

The Interactive Gambling Amendment Bill was originally designed to address gaps in existing laws that permitted sports wagering businesses to function outside legal boundaries. Nevertheless, the amendment inadvertently incorporated language that effectively outlawed online poker as well. Leyonhjelm contends this was an error, informing pokernews.com, “I don’t believe they grasped the implications of their actions.” He proceeded to denounce the inconsistency of permitting online sports wagering and racing while prohibiting online poker.

Subsequent to the bill’s approval in March, Leyonhjelm unsuccessfully appealed to Parliament for additional revisions. However, he maintains hope that the law can be reexamined, asserting, “Should I succeed in initiating an inquiry that reveals the illogical nature of the current law, perhaps we can achieve some modifications.”

Individuals interested in participating in the inquiry can provide their contact information on a designated website and will be reached by authorities to offer feedback on potential alterations to the legislation.

Big names in internet gaming, such as Vera&John and 888poker, have already withdrawn from the Australian market. PokerStars is prepared to do the same if this proposed law is enacted.

Viktor “Isildur1” Blom, a Swedish poker professional, has openly supported the effort to preserve online poker in Australia. He has pledged his allegiance to the Australian Online Poker Alliance (AOPA), a citizen-led organization of Australian poker players opposing these suggested modifications.

The AOPA has initiated a “Keep Online Poker Legal” petition and established a forum for Australians to readily communicate with their local representatives about this matter.

Blom expressed gratitude for the AOPA, stating, “They’ve been doing fantastic work in advance of this vote, and I’m thankful for their assistance – they’ve kept me optimistic. I’m certain they’ll make themselves heard when the moment arrives.”

Joseph Del Duca, the AOPA’s media liaison, informed pokernews.com: “It’s heartening to witness so many poker enthusiasts rallying behind our campaign to maintain the legality of online poker in Australia. Our backers represent a diverse range of backgrounds and geographical locations across the nation. It simply demonstrates that poker is a game that everyone can appreciate. And that is precisely why we are battling so vigorously to safeguard it.”