A proposed bill aimed at regulating online gambling has stirred controversy by suggesting that online betting platforms should prominently display users’ losses. The bill, introduced by independent member Rebekha Sharkie, aims to address the issue of problem gambling by increasing transparency around financial losses incurred through online betting activities.
The idea for this bill originated from a submission by Jake Minear, a concerned WA businessman, who emphasized the necessity for online gambling apps to provide users with real-time updates on their financial standing similar to a bank balance. Despite the initial proposal gaining traction in a parliamentary inquiry led by the late Peta Murphy, little progress was made in implementing measures to curb online sports betting advertising.
The bill, titled the “Interactive Gambling Amendment (Know Your Losses Activity Statement) Bill 2025,” mandates that online betting platforms must display comprehensive information on users’ net losses and wins for specific time periods. This move aims to increase awareness among gamblers about their financial losses over time, similar to how a bank statement reveals account balances.
Online gambling has become a significant concern in Australia since its inception in 1996, with billions of dollars being lost annually, particularly by vulnerable individuals. Despite calls for stricter regulations and advertising bans, the prevalence of online gambling continues to rise, contributing to social and financial challenges within communities.
Rebekha Sharkie’s bill, while a step in the right direction, is not seen as a standalone solution to the complex issue of online gambling addiction. Additional measures such as advertising restrictions, similar to those advocated by Murphy’s committee, and the removal of betting odds from sporting fixtures are also deemed necessary to address the root causes of problem gambling.
In conclusion, the proposed bill to display online gambling losses represents a proactive effort to tackle the negative impacts of excessive gambling behavior. By promoting transparency and accountability within the online betting industry, lawmakers aim to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their gambling activities and ultimately reduce the prevalence of problem gambling in Australian society.