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Why This Coin Toss Game Is Legal Only One Day a Year Across Australia

World News
April 25, 2026 · 1:04 AM
Why This Coin Toss Game Is Legal Only One Day a Year Across Australia

Two-up, a simple coin toss betting game where two people wager against each other on heads or tails, is classified as unregulated gambling and illegal in most of Australia. But on April 25, pubs across the country are allowed to host the game for a few hours. The BBC's Harry Sekulich explains why this exception exists and what supporters and critics have to say.

Video by Kellie Highet

The game, traditionally played by Australian soldiers during World War I, is permitted on Anzac Day to honor the nation's military history. Proponents argue it's a cherished tradition that brings communities together, while opponents warn that even one day of legalized gambling can fuel addiction.