In August 2024, a Curia survey of 1,000 New Zealanders, commissioned by PGF Services, revealed overwhelming support for regulating online gambling. Eighty percent of respondents supported regulation, bringing to light widespread concern over the impact of online gambling on society. This survey reflects a growing demand for government intervention to address the harmful effects of unregulated online gambling in the country.
New Zealand is currently the exception to the rule, as many other OECD nations have already implemented stringent controls over online gambling. The lack of regulation here has left a significant gap in protections, especially as more offshore online casinos target New Zealanders. This regulatory gap has led to a rising tide of public frustration and a call for stronger oversight.
The survey also highlighted the awareness of harm associated with online gambling is high, with a resounding 93% of respondents describing it as harmful or somewhat harmful. This sentiment underscores the urgency for consumer protection measures that reduce gambling-related harm. In August, a coalition of gambling harm support services (including PGF Services) presented a position paper to Parliament, emphasizing the need for robust regulatory measures around online gambling focused on harm minimisation. We stress the importance of regulation that will help protect vulnerable Kiwis and reduce the societal costs associated with gambling harm and financial loss.
The financial toll of unregulated online gambling is another compelling reason for action. In 2022 alone, New Zealanders reportedly lost an estimated $415 million to online gambling, and this figure is only expected to increase. Regulating online casinos and introducing robust consumer protection measures will help curb these financial losses and mitigate the harm to individuals, families, and communities. With more people accessing online gambling sites, the scale of gambling harm continues to grow, affecting more New Zealanders each year.
Recognizing these concerns, Minister for Internal Affairs Hon. Brooke van Velden confirmed that regulations for online casino gambling are on the way, along with a licensing system for online casino operators. This announcement aligns closely with public sentiment, as reflected in the survey, and signals a shift towards prioritizing public health and consumer safety. New Zealand’s steps towards regulation mirror a broader trend worldwide, where governments are taking action to address the risks associated with online gambling.
As public support grows for meaningful reform, the future of online gambling regulation in New Zealand stands at a crucial turning point—one that could redefine our approach to protecting Kiwis from online gambling harm.
