Online wagering inducements to be banned in Queensland

Published Thursday, 13 August, 2020 at 01:18 PM

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice
The Honourable Yvette D'Ath

The Palaszczuk Government has introduced draft legislation in State Parliament to deliver stronger consumer protections for Queenslanders gambling online.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Yvette D’Ath said the proposed laws were aimed squarely at minimising gambling harm to Queenslanders.

“The rate of online problem gambling is three times higher than other types of gambling and we’re determined to drive this rate down,” she said.

“We know that inducements to open an account, such as free bonus bets, are being offered by some online wagering operators and that this is contributing to excessive and unsafe gambling levels.

“That’s why we’re introducing a ban on inducements to open a betting account with an online wagering provider.

“Inducements for referring a friend to open an account will also be banned.”

The proposed ban on online wagering inducements to open an account was agreed between the Commonwealth, State and Territory governments under the National Consumer Protection Framework for Online Wagering signed in November 2018.

The Attorney-General said the Palaszczuk Government was going even further than the national framework by moving to ban inducements offered to punters to stop them closing a betting account or from unsubscribing from direct marketing.

“This is all part of the Palaszczuk Government’s ongoing efforts to tackle problem gambling and the harm it causes,” she said.

The Queensland Government provides more than $6.7 million each year for Gambling Help Services (GHS) to assist those who experience problems with gambling.

These services includ face-to-face counselling, a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week telephone helpline, the Gambling Help Online counselling service, as well as counselling in alcohol and other drug support services.

If you or a friend or family member need further information or support, contact Gambling Helpline on 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelpqld.org.au.

Media contact: Martin Philip 0407 675 008