In a concerted effort to advocate for responsible gambling practices, Responsible Wagering Australia (RWA) has joined hands with NSW GambleAware Week for 2023. This collaborative initiative aims to address critical issues related to gambling, with the theme for this year’s GambleAware week being ‘What’s gambling costing you?’ – a poignant question intended to raise awareness about available support services.
CEO’s Perspective:
Kai Cantwell, the CEO of Responsible Wagering Australia, underlines the significance of this event. He describes it as a crucial moment for individuals to reflect on their personal gambling habits, to reach out to friends and family, and to spread awareness about the assistance services that are readily available.
Active Participation of RWA Members:
RWA’s members are actively participating in this endeavor by featuring GambleAware week promotions within their apps and on their websites. This proactive approach aims to engage customers in a dialogue about responsible gambling.
Promoting Support Services:
Customers placing bets will encounter GambleAware Week promotions, complete with links to support services. This will ensure that those engaging in gambling activities are aware of the resources and assistance available to them.
Industry Challenges:
Cantwell also highlights a critical challenge facing the industry – the presence of illegal offshore operators who entice Australians with alluring promotions. These operators, in stark contrast to RWA members and licensed wagering providers, operate outside Australian laws, evade taxes, and lack consumer protection measures.
Impact of Illegitimate Operators:
Responsible Wagering Australia reveals that the offshore market now accounts for 15% of the entire Australian gambling market, valued at over $1.63 billion annually. The concern is not just about competition but about the potential threat it poses to the Australian economy. Estimates suggest a potential loss of up to $3 billion from 2022 to 2027 due to illegitimate operators engaging in practices like restricting withdrawals and targeting underage audiences.
A Call for Consumer Awareness:
Cantwell underscores RWA’s support for government efforts in combating illegal offshore providers. He urges consumers to verify the legality of websites by visiting ACMA.gov.au. This step is vital in protecting consumers and the integrity of the Australian gambling industry.
Responsible Wagering Australia’s collaboration with NSW GambleAware Week is a commendable step toward fostering responsible gambling practices. By actively promoting support services and raising awareness about the potential pitfalls of illegal offshore operators, RWA aims to protect both consumers and the Australian economy. This collective effort highlights the industry’s commitment to ensuring that gambling remains a safe and responsible form of entertainment.