New harm minimisation rules announced

The new rules will ensure more protection from gambling harm for those who bet online. (Unsplash/John Schnobrich)

The state government has announced that online betting service providers will be subject to strict new harm minimisation rules.

Harm minimisation measures will include the requirements that involve wagering and betting service providers to deliver monthly account activity statements to customers and for staff members to undergo responsible service of wagering training.

The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission will enforce the new measures, which will build upon the National Consumer Protection Framework (NCPF) that was implemented in Victoria in 2019.

Gaming and Liquor Regulation Minister Melissa Horne said the new measurers were another important step towards minimising gambling harm across Victoria.

“Online betting companies will be held to account if they don’t follow the directions,” she said.

“These new measures mean more Victorians are in control of their gambling habits and wagering and betting gaming providers are given stronger responsibilities to keep their consumers safe.”

Customers, including those living in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay, will also have better capabilities to refuse to receive direct marketing material.

The expanded measures will apply to any relevant service provider licenced in Victoria, even if they only provide services in other states.

Details: responsiblewagering.com.au/advocacy/national-consumer-protectionframework.