New analysis from the economic research organization e61 Institute found that Australia’s 2024 ban on using credit cards for online wagering had minimal impact on the country’s heaviest gamblers.
According to The Guardian, most switched to ordinary transaction accounts and continued betting with little disruption.
The study showed average fortnightly spend among credit card users fell from just over AU$200 (US$132) to AU$0 (US$0.00) on credit cards, but remained about AU$150 (US$99) through transaction accounts. Researchers said that most had sufficient funds available to continue wagering without needing to borrow.
The report noted the reform did not address several loopholes, including cash advances, PayPal deposits, and personal loans. These options remained available, though researchers found heavy gamblers did not need to rely on them.
