Online gambling in the spotlight during federal hearings

The Australian federal government continues to field responses from the public as it examines the current state of online gambling, especially relating to its regulation and how it affects the people experiencing gambling harm.

Last year, the Australian government – through the Standing Committee on Social Policy and Legal Affairs – began looking into online gambling and its impact on those experiencing gambling harm, after receiving public calls to increase restrictions on the industry. The aim of the inquiry is to determine if there is need for further restrictions on online gambling and if gambling addicts are getting adequately considered.

At present, online bookmakers are allowed to let customers play without proof of income, except individuals that may have links to crime or gamble heavily. Also, there have been several cases recently of betting companies marketing to self-excluded individuals – notably Betr and BetNation, both of which have been sanctioned by industry regulators.

Experts and advocacy groups are calling for the government to heighten restrictions on the industry. The Northern Territory Racing Commission, which licenses most of the gambling companies in the country, agrees with views that “licensees should do more to prevent the harmful effects of problem gambling than simply comply with the bare minimum regulatory requirements”.

Meanwhile, the committee has not reached a date for when it will submit its final report. Its last meeting was held February 28, 2023.
 
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