Australia is taking significant steps to tackle gambling-related harm with the introduction of the Interactive Gambling Amendment (Credit and Other Measures) Bill 2023. This proposed legislation aims to ban the use of credit cards and digital currencies in online gambling. Additionally, the bill establishes stringent fines for operators who do not enforce the ban, with potential penalties of up to AU$234,750.
Key Measures of the Amendment
The amendment introduces several critical measures:
- Ban on Credit Cards and Digital Currencies: The bill seeks to prohibit the use of credit cards and digital currencies for online gambling, aligning it with the existing ban on credit card gambling at land-based facilities.
- Fines for Non-Compliance: Operators failing to adhere to the proposed ban could face substantial fines. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) would have expanded powers to enforce these penalty provisions.
- Transition Period: If the amendment becomes law, a six-month transition period will be implemented for both the gambling industry and consumers, commencing immediately upon receiving Royal Assent.
Protecting Vulnerable Australians
The motivation behind the proposed ban is to protect vulnerable individuals from gambling-related harm. According to Michelle Rowland MP, the Minister for Communications, the government is committed to safeguarding Australians from the adverse effects of gambling. She stated, “It’s as simple as this: people should not be betting with money they do not have.”
Consultation and Stakeholder Involvement
The bill is the culmination of extensive consultations with various stakeholders, including operators, harm reduction advocates, wagering and lottery providers, and banking payment organizations. It reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the harm caused by online gambling.
Australia’s Ongoing Efforts
Australia has been actively implementing measures to combat gambling harm. Recent initiatives include:
- Monthly Activity Statements: Providing players with statements outlining their wins and losses.
- New Taglines: Replacing “Gamble Responsibly” with evidence-based messages.
- BetStop National Self-Exclusion Register: Allowing individuals to self-exclude from gambling with all Australian licensees.
- Mandatory Customer Pre-Verification: Requiring operators to verify a customer’s identity before they can register or place bets.
A Consistent Approach
The proposed ban on credit card gambling aligns online gambling regulations with the existing restrictions on land-based facilities. Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth MP, emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting vulnerable Australians and ensuring a level playing field between online and land-based gambling.
Future Developments
The Australian government remains proactive in addressing online gambling issues. It is considering additional recommendations from a parliamentary inquiry into online gambling and plans to convene a meeting of state, territory, and commonwealth ministers responsible for online wagering by the end of 2023.