Responsible gambling has become one of the most salient industry topics in recent years. Operators and regulatory bodies are both focused on ensuring vulnerable players are protected and that appropriate safeguards are in place wherever necessary. This week, an Australian credit card gambling ban came into effect, in a major move designed to further protect players.
Let’s take a look at the Australian credit card gambling ban in more detail and discuss what it means for both players and operators in the country. Read on to find out more.
The History of Gambling in Australia
Like most countries around the world, Australia has a long and complex gambling history. Horseracing was the first regulated gambling activity, introduced in the early 1800s. This was followed by a national lottery established in 1916 and then the country’s first slot machines in the 1950s. Australia’s first casino opened its doors in 1973, giving citizens the opportunity to enjoy games such as roulette, blackjack and baccarat for the first time.
However, the gambling industry has changed significantly since the 1970s. Online gambling has revolutionised the sector. Player behaviour and preferences have changed drastically, and authorities have had to react quickly to amend regulations and legislation to reflect these shifts.
In 2001, Australia introduced The Interactive Gambling Act. This legislation was created to specifically address and regulate new forms of online gambling. With the new Australian credit card gambling ban, the government is looking to update the bill and address evolving player behaviour.
The Details of the Ban
The Australian credit card gambling ban was proposed by parliament in 2023, with the bill passed in November and sent on to the country’s senate for final approval. Authorities introduced a six-month transition period after the ban was passed, giving operators the chance to prepare for change with minimal disruption to their businesses.
With this six-month period now over, the ban has come into effect and the use of credit cards is now prohibited for gambling in the country. Credit cards were already banned in land-based Australian casinos, but this will now also apply to nearly all forms of online gambling. The two exceptions are keno and lottery games, which can still be played using credit cards.
Operators found to be in breach of the new rules can now face a penalty of up to $154,978. The updated legislation also gives new powers to authorities, enabling them to enforce the rules and issue fines.
Responsible Gambling in Australia
The Australian credit card gambling ban is just the latest in a number of steps the country has taken to protect vulnerable players and reduce the level of gambling-related harm.
In 2023, Australia implemented a pre-verification system for iGaming operators, requiring them to verify the identity of all new players before they can start using online gambling products and services.
Last year also saw the launch of a national self-exclusion register for problem players and rules regarding specific safer gambling messaging that operators must adhere to.
Conclusion
With the Australian credit card gambling ban now in force, the government has sent a clear signal that it’s taking responsible gambling seriously and that it is willing to introduce changes that will, ideally, help prevent gambling-related harm. For operators, this means reviewing and updating systems to ensure they adhere to the new rules. Failure to do so can see operators face heavy fines. Safer gambling is an increasingly important industry topic, and operators must stay on top of the latest rules to ensure they are protecting their players at all times.
