Gambling reforms put onus on bookies to flag vulnerable punters
Australia's new gambling laws require bookies to flag problem gamblers and limit inducements, sparking debate over industry responsibility and consumer protection.Summary
Australia’s federal government has introduced a package of gambling reforms that shift the onus onto wagering companies to identify and flag vulnerable customers. The new red‑flag system will require operators to stop sending promotional inducements to anyone who shows signs of problem gambling, based on metrics such as betting frequency and spend. Critics argue the measure is weak, citing a lack of independent oversight and the potential for companies to misuse the system, while supporters claim it is a significant step toward protecting at‑risk punters. The legislation also bans inducements to new customers for 14 days after account sign‑up, limits promotions for those off the self‑exclusion register Betstop for three months, and prohibits wagering staff from earning commissions on customer activity. Additional amendments create an opt‑out advertising register called Adstop, extend TV ad blackouts before live sports, and ban ads during children’s programming. The bill has drawn support from the Prime Minister, who called it the most significant gambling advertising reform, but opposition parties and industry groups have expressed concerns about loopholes and implementation challenges. The reforms are set to take effect on 1 January next year, with the new regulatory framework to be enforced by the Australian Media Communications Authority.
(Source：ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation))