How We Rate Casinos
At Sandstone Blocks, we've developed a comprehensive methodology to evaluate online casinos operating in Australia. Our ratings are designed to help Australian players make informed decisions when choosing where to play. Here's exactly how we assess each casino.
1. Licensing & Regulation
Licensing and regulatory compliance is the foundation of a trustworthy casino. We prioritise casinos that hold valid licences from recognised international gambling authorities, including:
- Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) – one of the most respected European regulators
- UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) – stringent standards and player protections
- Curaçao eGaming License – widely recognised offshore authority
- Australian Local Licensing – compliance with local AU regulations where applicable
We verify that casinos maintain active licences, have clean compliance records, and demonstrate commitment to legal operation in Australian territories.
2. Game Selection & Software Providers
A diverse and high-quality game library is essential for an engaging casino experience. We evaluate:
- Slots – variety, themes, RTP percentages, and latest releases
- Live Casino – quality of live dealers, streaming, game variety (blackjack, roulette, baccarat, poker)
- Table Games – classic options including variations and betting limits
- Software Providers – partnerships with industry leaders such as Microgaming, NetEnt, Pragmatic Play, and Evolution Gaming
We assess both the quantity and quality of games, ensuring players have access to popular titles and innovative new releases.
3. Bonus Terms & Wagering Requirements
Attractive bonuses mean little if the terms are unreasonable. We scrutinise:
- Transparency – clear, accessible Terms & Conditions
- Wagering Requirements – reasonable rollover multiples (typically 30x-50x is fair)
- Maximum Cashout Limits – whether winnings from bonuses are capped
- Eligible Games – which games contribute to wagering, and at what percentage
- Bonus Types – welcome bonuses, reload bonuses, free spins, and loyalty rewards
Our goal is to identify casinos offering genuine value to players, not those hiding unfavourable terms in fine print.
4. Payment Methods & Withdrawal Speed
Convenient and secure transactions are vital for Australian players. We evaluate:
- Cryptocurrency Options – Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital currencies for privacy and speed
- E-Wallets – PayPal, Skrill, Neteller for fast transfers
- Bank Transfers – direct deposit options
- Local Payment Methods – Poli, Neosurf, and other AU-friendly options
- Withdrawal Speed – average processing times and reliability
- Fees & Charges – transparency around transaction costs
We verify that casinos process withdrawals promptly and offer multiple payment options to suit different player preferences.
5. Customer Support
Responsive and helpful customer support can make all the difference. We assess:
- 24/7 Live Chat – immediate assistance during all hours
- Email Support – reliable response times and quality of answers
- Phone Support – where available, especially for Australian players
- Responsiveness – average time to receive meaningful assistance
- Knowledge & Professionalism – quality and helpfulness of support staff
We test support channels personally and track player feedback regarding response quality and speed.
6. Mobile Experience
Most Australian players enjoy casino gaming on their smartphones and tablets. We evaluate:
- Responsive Design – smooth performance on iOS and Android browsers
- Dedicated Apps – availability and functionality of native applications
- Game Performance – loading speeds, graphics quality, and stability
- Mobile Features – touch-optimised controls and mobile-specific bonuses
- Compatibility – support for various devices and screen sizes
An excellent mobile experience is no longer optional – it's essential in 2026.
7. Responsible Gaming Tools
Player safety and wellbeing are paramount. We verify that casinos provide:
- Deposit Limits – tools to set daily, weekly, or monthly spending caps
- Self-Exclusion Options – ability to exclude oneself from the casino for set periods
- Cooling-Off Period – mandatory breaks between gaming sessions
- Reality Checks – reminders during extended play sessions
- Problem Gambling Resources – links to AU support services and counselling
- Betting Limits – control over stake sizes
We believe responsible gambling features are non-negotiable and reflect a casino's commitment to player protection.
8. Our Rating Scale
Each casino reviewed on Sandstone Blocks receives an overall rating from 1 to 10, calculated as follows:
- 9-10 (Excellent) – Outstanding across all criteria; highly recommended for most Australian players
- 7-8 (Very Good) – Strong performance in most areas; a reliable choice
- 5-6 (Good) – Solid offering with minor weaknesses; worth considering
- 3-4 (Fair) – Notable issues in one or more key areas; proceed with caution
- 1-2 (Poor) – Significant concerns regarding safety, fairness, or customer experience; not recommended
Individual criteria are weighted according to the importance hierarchy listed above, with Licensing & Regulation being the most critical factor. A casino cannot achieve a high overall rating if it fails to meet regulatory standards, regardless of its performance elsewhere.
Last Updated: 2026