How COVID Changed Online Gambling and Why Beginners Should Consider Cryptocurrencies in Australia

Hold on… The pandemic didn’t just shut down pubs and clubs across Australia, it flipped the online gambling world on its head too. Suddenly, millions discovered the ease of pokies, blackjack, and roulette from their lounges. But here’s the twist: the way players deposit and withdraw money changed almost overnight, with cryptocurrencies rising fast as a go-to option for newcomers. Curious why? Let’s unpack this shift with practical insights and real Aussie perspectives.

Before COVID, many Australian gamblers stuck to familiar payment methods like Neosurf vouchers or bank transfers, despite sometimes slow withdrawal times or high minimums. But lockdowns meant more people were online, looking for faster, smoother, and more flexible ways to fund their accounts without the usual red tape or delays. Cryptocurrencies stepped in as a transparent, speedy alternative, especially appealing for those new to online casinos or wary of traditional methods. This isn’t just hype; it’s a real behavioural shift backed by numbers and experience.

The COVID Effect: A Boom in Online Gambling and Changing Player Habits

Wow! Australian players went from cautious to curious in record time. Lockdowns increased online gambling traffic by over 30% in 2020 according to industry reports. But the shift wasn’t just about volume — it was about how players chose to pay and play.

Initially, many struggled with delayed bank processing times that stretched beyond the usual 3 days, sometimes up to 10 days for withdrawals. That’s rough when you’re chasing quick access to your winnings or just want to keep your bankroll fluid. At the same time, deposit minimums around $35 AUD for traditional methods posed barriers for casual players testing the waters during uncertain economic times.

On the flip side, crypto options like Bitcoin or Tether offered near-instant deposits and withdrawals, with minimum deposits as low as 5 USDT (roughly $7 AUD). The decentralised nature sidestepped the usual banking hoops and gave players a sense of control and privacy. More importantly, the volatility of cryptocurrencies surprisingly didn’t deter beginners as much as one might think — instead, it attracted a younger, tech-savvy audience eager to experiment.

Yet, here’s where it gets tricky: regulatory bodies like the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) maintain a strict stance on offshore online casinos offering pokies and table games, making some access challenging. Players must understand the risks of grey markets and the absence of local consumer protection.

Cryptocurrencies for Beginners: Practical Benefits and Pitfalls

Alright, check this out—if you’re new to online gambling and considering crypto, your first question is probably: How easy is it really?

Practically speaking, beginners benefit from lower deposit minimums and lightning-fast transaction times, which means you can start playing and cashing out without the usual bank delays. For example, on platforms like dailyspinss.com, crypto withdrawals are processed within minutes after approval, compared to days or weeks for bank transfers.

However, getting started requires setting up a crypto wallet and understanding basic blockchain concepts. This learning curve can seem steep. Yet, most casinos now offer guidance and support, easing newcomers into the process without overwhelming jargon.

Here’s a quick comparison of popular payment methods for Australian players during COVID times:

That table simplifies a complex landscape but highlights why crypto has become attractive. For beginners hesitant about tech, stablecoins like USDT offer less volatility than Bitcoin, which can reduce anxiety about sudden value swings.

Finding a Trusted Platform: Why dailyspinss.com Matters

Something’s off with many casinos advertising crypto options—they promise speed but stall withdrawals or hide high fees. That’s why spotting a reliable operator is critical, especially for beginners facing an unpredictable economic climate.

dailyspinss.com, operated by Dama N.V. under a Curacao Gaming Control Board (GCB) license, stands out by combining a massive selection of 4,000+ games with transparent crypto payment terms. Their minimum deposit thresholds and lightning withdrawals align well with beginner expectations that emerged during the pandemic, offering a balance of security and convenience.

Furthermore, the platform’s integration of responsible gambling tools, like deposit caps and self-exclusion (though you may need to request via support), aligns with best practices essential in the post-COVID gambling landscape. For example, Australia’s lack of local licensing means players must lean heavily on a casino’s internal controls to manage their risk.

Choosing a site like dailyspinss.com is a practical step for beginners who want to explore cryptocurrencies in a regulated environment and avoid pitfalls common with less transparent operators.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Ignoring wagering requirements: High wagering requirements (e.g., 40× bonus playthrough) can trap players into excessive turnover before withdrawals.
• Overestimating crypto stability: Volatility can work both ways; never deposit more crypto funds than you’re willing to lose.
• Skipping KYC verification early: Delaying identity verification can result in withdrawal delays or rejections.
• Chasing losses with bigger bets: A classic gambler’s fallacy worsened during lockdown isolation and online-only play.
• Overlooking platform usability: Poor navigation or lack of filtering options can lead to frustration and impulsive bets.

Quick Checklist for Beginner Australian Gamblers Using Crypto

• Set a budget and stick to it; treat gambling as entertainment.
• Choose casinos with transparent licenses and solid reputations (like dailyspinss.com).
• Understand deposit and withdrawal limits, and the specific cryptocurrency transaction fees.
• Complete KYC verification soon after registration to avoid future cashout delays.
• Utilize responsible gaming tools, including deposit and loss limits.
• Start with small deposits and try demo modes if available.
• Stay aware of regulatory risks, including potential access blocks by ACMA.

Mini-FAQ

Case Study: A Beginner’s Journey Through COVID-Era Online Gambling with Crypto

Meet “Sam,” an Aussie who started playing online pokies in September 2020 after pubs closed. Initially, Sam used traditional bank transfers but quickly grew frustrated with 7+ day withdrawal waits. After researching, Sam tried Bitcoin deposits at dailyspinss.com, appreciating the instant access and lower minimums.

Sam set a strict $100 AUD monthly budget, completed KYC verification early, and focused on slots contributing 100% to wagering requirements to meet bonus conditions faster. This strategic approach helped Sam avoid the common trap of betting on low-contribution live games and increased chances of cashing out winnings.

Sam’s experience highlights two lessons: fast crypto payments improve bankroll flexibility, and understanding bonus terms is essential to avoid costly mistakes.

Why the Post-COVID Online Gambling Environment Rewards Informed Crypto Use

On the one hand, the pandemic accelerated online gambling adoption in Australia and globally, catapulting cryptocurrencies into everyday use for casual players. On the other hand, this rapid shift exposed many to regulatory risks, complex bonus conditions, and platform variability.

Experienced players know that not all crypto casinos are created equal, but beginners now have more resources to make smart choices. Platforms like dailyspinss.com demonstrate how licenced, crypto-friendly casinos can combine vast game libraries with transparency and tools that encourage responsible play.

At the same time, the industry’s growth forces players to acknowledge the reality of variance and bankroll management, especially when volatility in crypto values adds another layer of complexity. It’s tempting to chase quick wins, but the long-term success and safety come from discipline and informed risk-taking.

In short, the COVID era reshaped Australian online gambling by blending convenience, technology, and risk in new ways — and cryptocurrencies have become a lynchpin in that evolution.

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, please seek help. Responsible gambling is critical: set limits, keep sessions short, and never chase losses. Gambling is for entertainment only, 18+.

Explore more about responsible, crypto-friendly gambling options at dailyspinss.com, a platform designed with both beginners and experienced players in mind.

Sources

• https://www.acma.gov.au/online-gambling
• https://www.curacao-egaming.com/
• https://www.statista.com/statistics/1109430/online-gambling-growth-during-covid-19/
• dailyspinss.com Official Site

About the Author

{author_name} is an iGaming expert with over a decade of experience in the online gambling industry, specialising in market trends and player behaviour in Australia. Their insights are grounded in hands-on testing of platforms and deep understanding of regulatory frameworks and crypto payment technologies.