Inquiry into online gambling and its impacts on those experiencing gambling harm

The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Social Policy and Legal Affairs will inquire into and report on online gambling and its impacts on those experiencing gambling harm. The inquiry will have regard to: 

• the effectiveness of existing consumer protections aimed at reducing online gambling harm 

• how to better target programs to address online gambling harm to reduce the potential exploitation of at-risk people, and protect individuals, families and communities 

• the effectiveness of current counselling and support services to address online gambling harm 

• the quality of and access to protective online gambling education programs 

• the impact of current regulatory and licensing regimes for online gambling on the effectiveness of harm minimisation and consumer protection efforts 

• the appropriateness of the definition of ‘gambling service’ in the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (Cth), and whether it should be amended to capture additional gambling-like activities such as simulated gambling in video games (e.g. ‘loot boxes’ and social casino games) 

• the appropriateness of current gambling regulations in light of emerging technologies, payment options and products 

• the effectiveness of protections against illegal online gambling services, including casino style gambling such as online blackjack and slot machines 

• the effectiveness of current gambling advertising restrictions on limiting children’s exposure to gambling products and services (e.g. promotion of betting odds during live sport broadcasts), including consideration of the impact of advertising through social media, sponsorship or branding from online licenced gambling operators, and 

• any other related matters.