The Criteria We Look For
To make our online casino reviews useful, we go beyond looks and promos. We verify licensing and ownership, assess payment security, confirm game fairness (RTP/RNG), scrutinise bonus rules, and test withdrawal speed. A glossy lobby means nothing if wagering is confusing or cashouts are slow. Below are the criteria we use to separate dependable casinos from the rest.
Trustworthiness, Integrity, and Reliability
If a casino isn’t trustworthy, nothing else matters. We research ownership, incident history, and how the brand handles player complaints—especially around large wins and jackpot payouts.
Real money play requires predictable, verifiable processes. Any signs of stalling, retroactive rule changes, or unfair term enforcement lead to a poor rating or exclusion.
What we check:
- Company history and ownership
- Industry reputation and dispute record
- Payout practices on large wins
- Player complaint handling and ADR
- Licensing and regulatory posture
- Independent auditing (RNG/RTP)
- undefined
Safety and Security
Your funds and data must be protected by modern security. We expect TLS encryption, segregated funds where applicable, and clear privacy policies.
We favour casinos that maintain current certificates, patch software promptly, and conduct regular security reviews.
Security should never be a guessing game—players need plain-language explanations of how data and payments are protected.
We also look for responsible gambling tools, including limits, cooling-off, and self-exclusion, with access to local help resources.
Payout Speed and Options
Winning is only satisfying if withdrawals are processed on time. We compare stated payout times with real-world performance.
Top casinos provide multiple withdrawal options—bank, cards, PayPal or e-wallets, and crypto where permitted—with transparent fees and limits.
Unnecessary delays or repeated KYC loops lower scores. Consistent, fast payouts earn the highest marks.
Deposit Options
Deposits should be straightforward and quick, with AUD support and fair limits. We check costs, success rates, and clarity around fees.
Game Options and Quality
A broad slot lineup—jackpots, Megaways, and classic titles—should be paired with quality table games and stable live casino streams.
We assess provider depth, lobby organisation, search and filters, and the stability of mobile play.
Low-quality or buggy games, long load times, or missing essentials lead to lower scores.
Clear game info (volatility, RTP where available) helps players make informed choices.
User Interface and Overall User Experience
Navigation should be simple: find games fast, manage your account easily, and withdraw without friction.
Mobile usability is critical—responsive layouts, stable performance, and accessible controls.
Confusing menus or hidden terms are red flags.
Level of Customer Service and Options
Support must be reachable and effective. We look for 24/7 live chat and email, with phone support as a bonus.
Answers should be prompt, polite, and knowledgeable—copy-paste replies do not cut it.
Clear complaint and escalation paths (including ADR where applicable) are a plus.
Documented response and resolution times help build trust.
Bonuses, Promotions, and VIP Programs
Bonuses should add value without traps. We weigh wagering, contribution rules, max caps, game restrictions, and expiry.
We highlight low wagering options where available and call out restrictive terms that reduce real value.
Loyalty or VIP programs should be transparent and optional—never required for timely payouts.