New Zealand Introduces Online Casino Gambling Bill for Regulation

New Zealand has taken a significant step towards regulating its online gambling industry by introducing the Online Casino Gambling Bill to Parliament. This bill aims to establish a structured licensing regime to bring order to the previously unregulated market. Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden emphasized the bill’s focus on harm minimization, consumer protection, and tax collection.

The current lack of regulation has allowed offshore casino platforms to cater to New Zealanders without adhering to domestic laws. This has created a grey market with no consumer safeguards or tax contributions. The new bill proposes a three-step licensing process overseen by the Secretary for Internal Affairs, with up to 15 licenses to be granted initially for a period of three years, extendable for up to five more years upon renewal.

Applicants seeking licenses must provide detailed business plans and demonstrate strong protocols for minimizing harm. Successful license holders will be allowed to advertise within New Zealand, subject to forthcoming advertising regulations. Penalties for unlicensed operators can reach up to NZ$5 million, emphasizing the government’s commitment to enforcing compliance.

The Department of Internal Affairs will be responsible for regulating online casinos, including oversight, enforcement, and the publication of a public operator registry. Licensees must adhere to strict consumer protection measures, such as age verification, problem gambling exclusion, and a robust complaints system. The bill also prohibits licensees from offering games similar to national lottery offerings to protect the integrity of existing services.

This legislation complements recent amendments to the Racing Industry Act 2020, reinforcing TAB New Zealand’s exclusive rights to offer online racing and sports betting. These changes aim to prevent unlicensed offshore entities from targeting New Zealand consumers, ensuring that gambling revenue benefits local programs.

Entain Australia, in partnership with TAB NZ, has welcomed these regulatory shifts and pledged an additional NZ$100 million upon full implementation. The reforms underscore New Zealand’s commitment to retaining gambling revenue domestically and supporting local initiatives. The bill is part of the Coalition Government’s broader efforts to enhance gambling controls and safeguard public interests.

The online casino licensing process is set to undergo public consultation during the select committee stage, allowing stakeholders to provide feedback on the proposed regulations. The bill’s implementation will mark a significant milestone in New Zealand’s efforts to create a safer and more regulated online gambling landscape.