Australia has introduced a new measure banning the use of credit cards for online gambling, aiming to ensure that players only gamble with their own money. This significant change has been in the works since 2021, with Responsible Wagering Australia (RWA) and its members playing a crucial role in advocating for and developing this ban alongside the Commonwealth Government and the financial services industry.
Industry Support for the Ban
Cantwell also pointed out the need for uniform consumer protection measures across all forms of gambling. “RWA and its members support the extension of this measure to all forms of gambling that have been exempted from the ban such as lotteries and keno. If consumer protection measures aren’t consistent across all forms of gambling, it will incentivize vulnerable Australians to move to less-regulated types of gambling, where they are more at risk of harm.”
Enhanced Consumer Protection Tools
RWA members are committed to ensuring that gambling is conducted safely and responsibly. They offer a variety of tools to help users manage their gambling activities more effectively. Many of these tools have been integrated into the National Consumer Protection Framework (NCPF) by the Commonwealth Government.
Cantwell noted the significance of the NCPF in maintaining a safe gambling environment. “The NCPF is expected to be evaluated shortly and we look forward to engaging in this process to ensure that consumer protection tools are fit-for-purpose and support a safe and sustainable regulated gambling environment,” he added.
This credit card ban marks a crucial step in protecting Australian consumers from the potential harms of gambling by preventing the use of borrowed money for such activities. It underscores the commitment of both the government and the industry to foster a safer and more regulated gambling environment.
Source: “Australia Enforces Credit Card Ban for Online Gambling”, European Gaming, June 12, 2024.