Responsible Wagering Australia members commit A$3m to financial counselling services
Bet365, Betfair, Entain, PointsBet, Sportsbet and Unibet to commit the money over three years to help the public access financial counselling services
Six Responsible Wagering Australia (RWA) members have committed to providing more than A$3m (£1.57m) over the next three years to help Australians access financial counselling services.
The RWA members involved are bet365, Betfair, Entain, PointsBet, Sportsbet and Unibet.
The RWA has partnered with the Australian federal government, the financial counselling sector and a number of industries, including banking, energy and insurance, to help establish a not-for-profit organisation that will help distribute this funding around the country starting in early 2024.
Kai Cantwell, RWA CEO, said the commitment from these members would set an “industry standard” for helping to keep players safe.
Cantwell commented: “This funding builds on our world-leading consumer protections that only exist in online gambling.
“The number one priority for RWA and its members is to ensure customers can gamble in a safe environment. This is while having access to the tools to stay in control of their gambling behaviour.
“This funding commitment demonstrates the collective commitment of RWA and its members to safeguard the wellbeing of Australians and provide vital support to those who may need assistance managing their financial circumstances,” he added.
Cantwell added that financial counselling was “more important than ever” as Australians tackle the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. He said this funding will help more people access these vital services.
He said: “The new body will help Australians manage their current situation and develop long-term financial skills for all areas of life.
“RWA is committed to working with government and industry to ensure the successful implementation of this initiative and hopes other industries will follow RWA’s lead and contribute to this scheme.”