How We Rate Casinos
At Fly Pelican for Agents, we've developed a comprehensive methodology to evaluate online casinos operating in Australia. Our ratings are designed to help agents and players identify trustworthy platforms that prioritise safety, fairness, and quality gaming experiences. Here's exactly how we assess each casino.
1. Licensing & Regulation
Licensing and regulatory compliance form the foundation of our casino ratings. We prioritise platforms that hold valid licenses from reputable jurisdictions, particularly:
- Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) – considered one of the most stringent European regulators
- UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) – enforces strict player protection standards
- Curaçao eGaming License – widely recognised in the online gaming industry
- Australian State Licenses – where applicable for locally-regulated operators
Casinos without verifiable licensing automatically receive lower ratings, regardless of other merits. We verify all licenses directly with regulatory bodies.
2. Game Selection & Software Providers
A strong casino library is essential. We evaluate:
- Slot Games – variety, quality, and frequency of new releases from major providers
- Live Casino – breadth of live dealer games, streaming quality, and software provider reputation
- Table Games – blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and poker variants with competitive rules
- Software Providers – partnerships with industry leaders such as Microgaming, NetEnt, Play'n GO, Evolution Gaming, and Pragmatic Play
We also assess game fairness through RTP (Return to Player) percentages and independent testing certifications.
3. Bonus Terms & Wagering Requirements
Promotional offers mean nothing without transparent, fair terms. We scrutinise:
- Wagering Requirements – we flag unrealistic rollover multiples (typically 40x or higher are unfavourable)
- Terms & Conditions Clarity – honest disclosure of restrictions and conditions
- Maximum Cashout Limits – particularly on welcome bonuses
- Game Weightings – whether certain games contribute less toward rollover requirements
- Bonus Validity Periods – reasonable timeframes to complete wagering
Casinos with predatory bonus structures receive significant rating penalties.
4. Payment Methods & Withdrawal Speed
Convenient and secure payment options are critical. We evaluate:
- Cryptocurrency Support – Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital currencies for tech-savvy players
- E-Wallets – PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, and other established digital payment providers
- Bank Transfers – direct deposits and local Australian banking methods
- Withdrawal Speed – average processing time from request to account credit
- Deposit Limits – reasonable minimum and maximum thresholds
- Transaction Fees – transparency regarding any applicable charges
We penalise casinos with slow payouts or limited payment options.
5. Customer Support
Responsive customer service is non-negotiable. We assess:
- 24/7 Live Chat – availability around the clock with reasonable wait times
- Email Support – response times and quality of assistance
- Phone Support – whether a direct line is available
- Response Quality – staff knowledge and ability to resolve issues effectively
- FAQ & Help Resources – comprehensive self-service options
Casinos demonstrating poor support or extended response times receive lower ratings.
6. Mobile Experience
With most players using mobile devices, we evaluate:
- Responsive Design – seamless gameplay across smartphones and tablets
- Dedicated Apps – iOS and Android applications with native performance benefits
- Navigation & Usability – intuitive menus and quick access to key functions
- Game Compatibility – full library availability on mobile platforms
- Loading Speed – fast and consistent performance
Casinos with poor mobile implementations are rated down accordingly.
7. Responsible Gaming Tools
Player protection mechanisms are essential. We verify the presence and functionality of:
- Deposit Limits – daily, weekly, and monthly spending caps
- Loss Limits – restrictions on cumulative losses
- Self-Exclusion Options – ability to temporarily or permanently ban oneself from the platform
- Cooling-Off Periods – mandatory breaks from gambling (typically 24 hours to 30 days)
- Reality Checks – periodic session duration reminders
- Links to Support Services – gambling addiction resources and counselling services
Casinos without robust responsible gaming features receive significant rating deductions.
8. Our Rating Scale
We use a 1-10 scoring system to provide clear, standardised ratings:
| Score | Rating | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 9-10 | Excellent | Outstanding in virtually all categories; highly recommended for Australian players and agents |
| 7-8 | Very Good | Strong performance across most criteria with minor areas for improvement |
| 5-6 | Good | Solid offering but notable shortcomings in one or more key areas |
| 3-4 | Below Average | Significant issues affecting player experience or safety; caution advised |
| 1-2 | Poor | Serious regulatory, safety, or operational concerns; not recommended |
Note: We update our ratings regularly to reflect changes in casino operations, licensing status, and player feedback. Our reviews are independent and based solely on the merits of each operator.