The Land Down Under has implemented a significant measure to mitigate gambling-related issues by prohibiting the utilization of credit cards for internet wagering. This pivotal ruling, lauded by Responsible Wagering Australia (RWA), seeks to foster responsible gaming practices by severing an easily accessible credit source often employed recklessly in the throes of the moment.
RWA’s chief executive, Kai Cantwell, commended the action, emphasizing its capacity to enable individuals to more effectively regulate their gaming activities. This novel legislation supplements existing safeguards provided by RWA affiliates, such as mechanisms for controlling wager limitations and self-exclusion choices.
Nevertheless, Cantwell also voiced apprehension regarding the omission of lotteries and Keno from the prohibition. He posits that this exception is counterproductive, particularly considering the widespread engagement in lotteries, especially among lower-income populations.
This legislative act represents the culmination of a joint endeavor involving the RWA, the Australian authorities, and financial entities since 2021. The RWA persists in advocating for responsible gambling consciousness, as demonstrated by their involvement in the Responsible Gambling Awareness Week in New South Wales in October 2023.
The gaming sector in Australia is expressing strong disapproval towards unregulated international gambling platforms, alleging that these entities circumvent Australian regulations and taxation while jeopardizing the well-being of gamblers.
This issue arises as Australia grapples with the challenge of curbing illicit internet gambling, a problem that deprives the government of income and has been associated with addictive gambling behaviors. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) was recently compelled to intervene, issuing a formal caution to one such provider, Best Bookies Price Pty Ltd, for engaging in online gambling operations without the necessary authorization.