The Albanese Government has initiated a comprehensive review into the regulation of online keno and foreign-matched lotteries. This move is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to minimize the harms associated with online gambling. The review aims to better understand the impact of these types of lotteries on the community and to evaluate whether regulatory changes are necessary. An Issues Paper has been released to inform the review process, which will include targeted consultations with various stakeholders.
Understanding Online Keno and Foreign-Matched Lotteries
Online keno and foreign-matched lotteries have become increasingly popular in Australia. Keno, a game of chance where players select numbers to win prizes, has traditionally been played in clubs and pubs but is now available online in some states and territories. Foreign-matched lotteries allow Australians to participate in lottery draws conducted overseas. These lotteries have raised concerns due to their potential to cause gambling harm.
The review follows a recommendation by the Senate Standing Committees on Environment and Communications, which suggested a 12-month review into the regulation of keno-type lotteries under the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (IGA). The government aims to explore the nature and size of the online keno and foreign-matched lotteries market in Australia, as well as the impact of existing, new, and emerging keno-type and foreign-matched lotteries.
The review will also consider adverse experiences of customers, such as loss of deposits or non-payment of winnings. The relevance of the definition of an ‘excluded lottery service’ under the IGA will be examined to determine if it remains fit for purpose. Policy options, including credit and digital payment bans or other restrictions, will be explored to reduce gambling harms.
Legislative and Regulatory Challenges
The regulation of online keno and foreign-matched lotteries presents several challenges. One of the primary issues is the ambiguity surrounding the definition of these lotteries and their classification under existing laws. The government will conduct targeted consultations with harm minimization advocates, community and charity organizations, academics, state and territory governments, newsagents, and the wagering industry to gather input and address these challenges.
The review will also assess the impact of these lotteries on Australian consumers and the broader community. This includes examining the potential for gambling harm and the effectiveness of current regulatory measures. The government is committed to ensuring that the regulation of online keno and foreign-matched lotteries aligns with its broader agenda to minimize online gambling harms.
In addition to the review, the government has implemented several measures to mitigate gambling harms. These include launching BetStop, the National Self-Exclusion Register, mandating customer ID pre-verification for all new online wagering accounts, and banning the use of credit cards for online wagering. These measures aim to protect vulnerable individuals and ensure a safer gambling environment.
Impact on the Community
The review of online keno and foreign-matched lotteries is crucial for understanding their impact on the community. These lotteries have the potential to cause significant harm, particularly to vulnerable individuals. The government aims to gather comprehensive data on the nature and size of the market, as well as the experiences of customers who participate in these lotteries.
The review will also consider the broader social and economic implications of these lotteries. This includes assessing the potential for gambling addiction and the impact on families and communities. The government is committed to ensuring that the regulation of online keno and foreign-matched lotteries protects consumers and minimizes harm.
By conducting this review, the government aims to develop a more effective regulatory framework for online keno and foreign-matched lotteries. This will involve exploring policy options to reduce gambling harms and ensure that these lotteries operate in a manner that is fair and transparent. The government is dedicated to protecting the well-being of Australian citizens and ensuring a safer gambling environment.
