Online social games – The Australian position

Introduction

In recent years, the increasing popularity of social media and social networks has led to the increased availability to Australians of a "new" genre of games that have become integrated into those networks. These games, commonly known as online social games, add a new social experience to gaming. In many respects, they are based on the same easy to learn and casual play model as many traditional games.

The growth of the online social games industry has led to some concern, due to their similarity with certain types of interactive gambling services which are illegal in Australia. However, there is a clear legal distinction between the two.

What are Social Games?