Australia eyes tighter measures for video games with gambling
Australia’s government is set to implement stricter regulations on video games that feature gambling-like elements, a measure designed to safeguard young individuals from potential gambling-related harms.
Beginning in September 2024, new mandatory minimum classifications will be enforced for these video games. This initiative follows the consensus among all Australian states and territories to revise the 2023 Guidelines for the Classification of Computer Games.
Games that incorporate in-game purchases associated with elements of chance, such as paid loot boxes, will be assigned a minimum classification of M for “Mature.” This rating indicates that the content is deemed unsuitable for children under the age of 15.
Moreover, computer games that simulate gambling, including social casino games, will be strictly classified for adult audiences only, receiving an R18+ rating. This classification signifies that the content is restricted to individuals aged 18 and over.
In announcing these regulatory changes, the government highlighted findings from research conducted by the Australian Institute of Family Studies. The study revealed that young individuals who engage with simulated gambling games are 40% more likely to gamble with real money as they transition into adulthood.
The government engaged with various stakeholders prior to finalizing these guidelines. Consultations involved key industry representatives, community organizations, the Australian Communications and Media Authority, and the Classification Board.
“Our government is resolute in its commitment to shielding vulnerable Australians from the harms associated with gambling, particularly children who may encounter gambling-like elements in video games,” stated Michelle Rowland MP, Minister for Communications.
“I extend my gratitude to the states and territories for their collaboration in enacting meaningful changes that protect children from gambling-like content through revisions to our classification system.”
“Research indicates that minors exposed to gambling-related content may face increased susceptibility to gambling issues later in life. We are committed to taking proactive measures to ensure their safety.”
“These modifications represent a significant step forward in our endeavor to modernize the National Classification Scheme, enabling Australians to make informed decisions about what they, along with those under their care, watch, read, and play.”
Ongoing Initiatives to Tackle Gambling Harms in Australia
This announcement underscores the government’s ongoing commitment to mitigating gambling-related harm in Australia.
Recent measures include the prohibition of credit card usage for online gambling activities. The government recently introduced legislation aimed at advancing this proposal.
The Interactive Gambling Amendment (Credit and Other Measures) Bill 2023 endeavors to ban credit cards and similar credit instruments, extending even to digital currencies.
Currently, Australia enforces a ban on the use of credit cards in land-based gambling establishments. This bill aims to align online gambling regulations with this existing framework, effectively instituting a universal ban on credit card transactions for gambling purposes.
In conjunction with these changes, the government has introduced evidence-based messaging to replace the generic “Gamble Responsibly” slogan and has established standardized training protocols for industry personnel.
Additionally, consumers now have access to the BetStop national self-exclusion register, which allows individuals to voluntarily exclude themselves from gambling activities with all Australian licensees for durations ranging from three months to a lifetime.
Furthermore, the government is moving forward with plans to enforce mandatory customer pre-verification processes. This requirement mandates that gambling operators verify a customer’s identity upon account registration and prior to placing any bets.
