How We Rate Casinos

At 89 Downing Street, we've developed a comprehensive methodology to evaluate online casinos and help Australian players find safe, fair, and entertaining gaming platforms. Our ratings are based on extensive research and player feedback. Here's how we assess each casino:

1. Licensing & Regulation

Player safety is our top priority. We verify that casinos hold valid licenses from reputable regulatory bodies, including:

• Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) – Stringent EU standards
• UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) – Rigorous oversight and player protections
• Curaçao eGaming License – International recognition and compliance
• Australian Local Licenses – Where applicable, compliance with ACMA regulations

We verify license authenticity, check regulatory history, and assess the operator's compliance record. Unlicensed or questionable operators receive low ratings regardless of other factors.

2. Game Selection & Software Providers

A quality casino offers diverse gaming options from reputable providers. We evaluate:

• Variety of slot games (classic, video, progressive jackpots)
• Live casino options (blackjack, roulette, baccarat, poker)
• Table games (European/American roulette, craps, keno)
• Software providers (Microgaming, NetEnt, Pragmatic Play, Evolution Gaming, etc.)
• Game fairness and RTP (Return to Player) percentages
• Regular game updates and new releases

3. Bonus Terms & Wagering Requirements

We scrutinize bonus offerings to identify genuine value versus misleading promotions. Our assessment includes:

• Clarity and transparency of Terms & Conditions
• Wagering requirements (rollover multiples) – lower is better
• Maximum cashout limits on bonuses
• Game contribution rates (which games count toward wagering)
• Bonus expiry timeframes
• Ongoing promotions and loyalty programs
• No predatory bonus structures

4. Payment Methods & Withdrawal Speed

Fast, reliable transactions are essential. We evaluate:

• Available payment options (credit/debit cards, e-wallets, cryptocurrency, bank transfers, PayID)
• Deposit and withdrawal processing times
• Transaction fees (we prefer no-fee options)
• Minimum and maximum deposit/withdrawal limits
• Security of payment gateways
• Currency support (AUD)

5. Customer Support

Responsive, helpful support is crucial for a positive player experience. We assess:

• 24/7 availability (live chat, email, phone)
• Average response times
• Support staff knowledge and professionalism
• Multiple contact channels
• FAQ and self-help resources
• Support in English with local understanding

6. Mobile Experience

Most players access casinos via mobile devices. We evaluate:

• Responsive web design (works seamlessly on all screen sizes)
• Native iOS and Android apps (where available)
• Loading speed and stability
• Game functionality on mobile
• Navigation ease and user interface
• Mobile-specific features and optimizations

7. Responsible Gaming Tools

We highly value casinos that prioritize player wellbeing with robust responsible gaming features:

• Deposit limits (daily, weekly, monthly)
• Loss limits and betting limits
• Session time limits and reminders
• Self-exclusion options (temporary and permanent)
• Cooling-off periods
• Reality checks and warning messages
• Links to problem gambling resources and support organizations
• Transparent policy on problem gambling

8. Our Rating Scale

We rate casinos on a 1-10 scale, with the following breakdown:

• 9-10 (Excellent) – Outstanding operator meeting all criteria with exceptional standards. Highly recommended.
• 7-8 (Very Good) – Strong performer with minor areas for improvement. Recommended for most players.
• 5-6 (Good) – Solid casino with some notable strengths and weaknesses. Suitable for experienced players.
• 3-4 (Fair) – Below-average operator with significant concerns. Proceed with caution.
• 1-2 (Poor) – Major red flags or regulatory issues. Not recommended.

Final Rating Calculation: Each criterion is weighted by importance, with Licensing & Regulation being the most critical factor. A casino cannot receive a high rating without proper licensing, regardless of other strengths. Our final score reflects an overall assessment of safety, fairness, and player experience.

Last updated: 2026. All reviews are current as of publication date. Player circumstances and casino operations may change, so we encourage you to verify current information directly with operators.