The Australian legislature has enacted legislation prohibiting the use of credit cards for internet wagering. This recent legislation aims to promote responsible gaming by increasing the difficulty of online gambling using credit.
This action has been lauded by groups like Responsible Wagering Australia (RWA), who have advocated for this type of reform. They contend that this measure will safeguard individuals and their families from the detrimental effects of immoderate gambling. They emphasize that this new law enhances the safety measures that many RWA members already offer their patrons, such as enabling individuals to establish spending constraints.
Nevertheless, the RWA also voiced disappointment that the prohibition does not encompass all forms of gambling. They specifically cited that lottery tickets and keno were excluded, despite lottery tickets, in particular, being highly prevalent in Australia and frequently posing a concern in lower-income neighborhoods.
The RWA has collaborated with the government and financial entities for several years to bring this credit card ban to fruition. They are also engaged in other initiatives, such as participating in events like Responsible Gambling Awareness Week to heighten awareness regarding problem gambling and the resources accessible to those requiring assistance.
The gaming sector in Australia is expressing strong disapproval towards unregulated international wagering platforms infiltrating the market and offering more competitive pricing. They are accusing these platforms of circumventing Australian regulations, taxation, and safeguards designed to protect consumers.
This situation arises while Australia is already grappling with the challenge of controlling these unauthorized online gambling websites, which are resulting in financial losses for the government and posing risks to gamblers. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) was compelled to intervene and issue a formal caution to one such company, Best Bookies Price Pty Ltd, for exceeding acceptable limits.
admin