Australia has enacted significant gambling reforms aimed at bolstering protections for those struggling with addiction. These reforms include stricter limitations on promotional offers and the implementation of an opt-out advertising scheme. The Interactive Gambling Amendment (Gambling Reform) Bill 2026 received parliamentary approval on August 19, with oversight from the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA).
Under the new legislation, gambling operators are mandated to identify customers at risk of addiction and to cease offering them betting opportunities. This will involve the establishment of specific regulations to guide compliance.
A notable feature of the legislation is the introduction of Adstop, an online platform that will complement BetStop, allowing consumers to register their preferences regarding gaming advertisements. In addition, operators will face restrictions on providing incentives to customers who have deregistered from BetStop within the previous three months.
The reforms also impose additional marketing regulations, prohibiting gambling providers from targeting new customers within the first two weeks of their registration. As these reforms take effect, ACMA's focus remains on curbing the activities of unauthorized gambling service providers.
