In June 2024, the Australian government prohibited the use of credit cards for gambling deposits. The ban applies to all licensed online wagering operators. One year on, the impact is clear: Australian punters have shifted to debit cards, PayID, and digital wallets.
What Changed
Before the ban, credit cards were the most common deposit method at Australian betting sites. The ban was introduced as a harm-minimisation measure, on the basis that gambling with borrowed money increases the risk of financial harm.
Operators adapted quickly. PayID adoption surged, and several bookmakers improved their debit card processing to match the speed that credit cards previously offered. Apple Pay and Google Pay (linked to debit cards) also saw increased usage.
Impact on Punters
For most punters, the transition was straightforward. Debit cards work identically to credit cards for deposit purposes, and PayID is faster than either. The main impact was on punters who were using credit to fund accounts beyond their means, which was the intended effect of the legislation.
If you're setting up a new betting account, we recommend PayID as your primary deposit method. It's instant, fee-free at most operators, and limits you to funds you actually have. The ban was enacted under the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.