Australia Bans Online Credit Card Betting

Australia has taken a bold step in the realm of online gambling by implementing a ban on the use of credit cards for betting. This development comes as a response to concerns regarding the potential risks associated with easy access to credit for gambling activities.

Kai Cantwell, CEO of Responsible Wagering Australia (RWA), lauded this decision as a vital measure to safeguard customers and their families. He emphasized that this ban would make it simpler for individuals to maintain control over their gambling behavior. Additionally, he noted that this action would complement the existing safer gambling account management tools offered by RWA members, aiding customers in managing their betting activities responsibly.

Despite the positive aspects of the ban, Cantwell expressed disappointment that lotteries and keno were exempted from the prohibition. Lotteries, in particular, represent a prevalent form of gambling in Australia, frequently accessed by individuals in low-socio-economic communities. The exemption of these forms of gambling raises questions about the effectiveness of the overall initiative in curbing gambling-related harm.