Responsible Wagering Australia (RWA) has welcomed the passage of legislation through the Australian Parliament designed to protect Australians from illegal offshore gambling operators.

The Interactive Gambling Amendment Bill 2016 seeks to implement a number of recommendations contained in the Review of Illegal Offshore Wagering, carried out by the Hon. Barry O’Farrell.

Importantly, the Bill prohibits a person from providing regulated interactive gambling services to an Australian unless they hold a license under the law of an Australian State or Territory. Responsible Wagering Australia’s Executive Director Stephen Conroy said any move by the Government to reduce the harm caused to Australians by illegal, offshore operators is welcome. “Since its inception late last year, RWA has campaigned for improved harm minimisation and consumer protection measures in the online wagering sector and welcomes many of the measures contained in the Bill,” Mr Conroy said.

“We are particularly pleased RWA’s position of banning credit betting has been adopted following amendments moved by the Nick Xenophon Team.

“By contrast to offshore providers, RWA members make a significant contribution to the Australian economy through taxes, wages, product fees to sports and racing bodies, as well as offering significantly greater harm minimisation outcomes,” said Mr Conroy.