Since 11 June 2024, Australians can no longer use credit cards to fund bets with licensed online wagering providers. The ban was introduced through the Interactive Gambling Amendment (Credit and Other Measures) Act 2023 and is enforced by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). Here’s what the change covers, what it doesn’t, and what it means in practice.
What the ban covers
The rules apply to interactive wagering providers: businesses licensed in Australia to take bets online or over the phone, such as sports and racing bookmakers. Those providers cannot accept payment for wagering using:
- credit cards
- other credit-related products
- digital currencies, such as cryptocurrency
Providers that breach the rules face penalties enforced by the ACMA.
What you can still use
Licensed wagering providers can still accept common non-credit payment methods, such as:
- debit cards
- bank transfers, including PayID where offered
- other non-credit methods accepted by the provider
Payment options differ between providers, so check the deposit page or payment information of the site you use. TWIN lists its accepted options on its payment methods page.
Why the change was made
Using credit to gamble means betting with borrowed money, which can quickly add interest and fees to any losses. The ban brought online wagering into line with rules that already restricted the use of credit cards in many land-based gambling venues, and was part of a wider set of consumer protection measures for online wagering in Australia.
How it fits with other protections
| Measure | What it does |
|---|---|
| Credit card ban (from June 2024) | Stops licensed online wagering providers accepting credit cards, credit-related products and digital currency |
| BetStop (from August 2023) | A free national register that lets people self-exclude from all licensed online and phone wagering providers |
| National Consumer Protection Framework | Sets minimum standards for licensed online wagering providers, including deposit limit tools and activity statements |
What it means for you
- Use money you already have. Fund betting from a debit account or other non-credit method, within a budget you’ve set in advance.
- Set a deposit limit with any provider you use. Our guide to setting limits and taking breaks walks through the options.
- Check payment terms before you deposit, as accepted methods differ between sites.
- Get help early. If gambling is putting pressure on your finances, Gambling Help Online offers free, confidential support 24/7 on 1800 858 858.
The bottom line
The credit card ban means bets with licensed Australian online wagering providers must be funded with money you already have, not borrowed money. It sits alongside BetStop and deposit limit tools as part of a wider framework designed to reduce gambling harm. Whatever payment method you use, the best protection is still a budget set before you play.
