A new bill has been proposed in parliament, aiming to tackle the issue of online gambling by requiring online betting platforms to display the losses of each client. The bill, presented by independent member Rebekha Sharkie, is designed to address problem gambling by increasing transparency around financial losses incurred through online betting activities.
The initiative stems from a submission made by Jake Minear, a concerned WA businessman, to a parliamentary inquiry on online gambling. Minear’s proposal suggests that online gambling apps should have mandatory reporting of users’ financial standings akin to a bank balance, visible on the home screen at all times. The bill, titled the “Interactive Gambling Amendment (Know Your Losses Activity Statement) Bill 2025,” mandates that online betting platforms must display information regarding an individual’s net losses and wins for specific time frames, such as the most recent month and year.
The bill’s primary objective is to provide users with a clear understanding of their financial position concerning online gambling activities. By making users aware of their losses each time they log on to a betting platform, the bill aims to encourage responsible gambling behavior by fostering transparency and informed decision-making.
The introduction of this bill signifies a shift towards addressing the detrimental impact of online gambling within Australian communities. Despite previous recommendations to prohibit online sports betting advertising, little progress has been made in curbing the escalating rates of online gambling participation. The bill serves as a proactive measure to combat the pervasive issue of problem gambling and its adverse effects on individuals and society at large.
In light of the exponential growth of online gambling in recent years, with billions being lost annually, regulatory measures such as the proposed bill are crucial in safeguarding vulnerable individuals from the harms of excessive gambling. By requiring online betting platforms to prominently display users’ financial losses, the bill aims to empower individuals to make more informed choices regarding their gambling habits and expenditures.
While the bill represents a significant step towards addressing the challenges posed by online gambling, it is acknowledged that additional measures, such as advertising restrictions and industry compliance, are essential in creating a comprehensive framework for responsible gambling practices. By promoting transparency and accountability within the online betting sector, the proposed legislation endeavors to mitigate the adverse impacts of problem gambling and promote a safer gambling environment for all users.