How We Rate Casinos
Our team uses a consistent 10-point scoring system across every casino listed on startopcasino.sbs. Each factor below contributes to the final score. We update our assessments in 2026 to reflect the current Australian online casino landscape, including how a brand performs for players who enjoy Star Casino destinations.
1. Licensing & Regulation
We first verify that a casino holds a current licence from a recognised authority. For Australian players, we look for a valid state or territory licence or a reputable international licence such as the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC), or a Curaçao eGaming permit. A casino without clear licensing details is not recommended.
2. Game Selection & Software Providers
The range of games is essential. We check the availability of online slots, live casino tables, and classic table games. We also note which software providers power the library, such as NetEnt, Microgaming, Evolution, Play'n GO, and Pragmatic Play. A strong catalogue with titles from multiple studios earns more points.
3. Bonus Terms & Wagering Requirements
We read the full terms and conditions for every welcome offer and reload bonus. Key points include the wagering rollover, any maximum cashout cap, game weighting, time limits, and excluded payment methods. We penalise unclear or unfair conditions, such as excessive rollover or hidden restrictions.
4. Payment Methods & Withdrawal Speed
We evaluate deposit and withdrawal options available to Australian users, including crypto, e-wallets, and bank transfers. Faster payout times score higher. We also check for transaction fees, minimum and maximum limits, and whether the casino processes withdrawals within a reasonable window after verification.
5. Customer Support
We test how easy it is to reach the support team. A 24/7 live chat earns top marks, while email and help centre options are also considered. We measure response times and whether answers resolve the question on first contact. Slow, unhelpful, or missing support lowers the score.
6. Mobile Experience
Most Australian players use a phone or tablet. We score a casino based on its responsive design, loading speed, and whether a dedicated iOS or Android app is available. The mobile version must offer the same key features as desktop, including payments, bonuses, and account tools.
7. Responsible Gaming Tools
Player safety matters. We look for deposit limits, session reminders, cooling-off periods, self-exclusion, and links to support organisations for Australian gamblers. Casinos that provide easy access to these tools receive higher marks. A missing or hidden responsible gambling section reduces the overall rating.
8. Our Rating Scale
We use a 1-10 scale, where 10 is excellent and 1 is poor. Scores are based on a weighted average of the seven criteria above. Licensing is the most important factor, followed by game selection, bonus fairness, payments, support, mobile experience, and responsible gaming tools. A score of 8 or higher usually indicates a trustworthy brand for Australian players. We never accept payment to increase a score.