Australia’s government has confirmed that a review will take place of its online gambling laws, with recommendations due to be returned by the end of 2015.
Social Services Minister Scott Morrison announced that the inquiry into the 2001 Interactive Gambling Act and the country’s current online gaming framework will be led by former New South Wales Premier Barry O’Farrell.
He added that a major focus of the review would be the impact of unlicensed operators, which he claims take about 60% of online wagers from Australia.
Morrison said: “Unlike Australia’s licensed operators, overseas agencies don’t contribute product fees to racing and sporting bodies, do not comply with Australia’s legal system and are not obligated to monitor and report suspicious betting activity.
“Illegal offshore wagering also leaves Australian punters without protection for pay-outs on their winnings.”
Morrison said that the review would examine other international regulatory regimes and technological and administrative options for improved regulation.
Matt Trip, chief executive of online gaming operator Crownbet, welcomed the development, but said that any new laws should look at better regulation rather than further prohibition.
He told the Australian newspaper: “We are very eager to work with the federal government, national sporting organisations and the community to ensure we have strong social safeguards for all our customers and a well regulated and responsible industry.
“There are literally thousands of offshore websites operating offering Australians the chance to bet live on Australian sports via the internet.
“Any push to wind back in-play gambling will send punters to offshore and illegal sites. A well regulated market place where everyone understands the rules is essential for the government and the industry to protect vulnerable gamblers. We are seeking platform neutrality.”
source : www.igamingbusiness.com
