New Zealand’s Online Casino Gambling Bill has passed its third and final reading in Parliament, clearing the way for a new licensing and regulatory framework for online casino operators, as reported by Inside Government.
The legislation introduces a formal system under which up to 15 licences will be granted through a competitive process. Licensed operators will be required to implement safeguards to exclude problem gamblers and comply with strengthened harm minimisation and consumer protection measures.
Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden said the new framework would also close what she described as a gambling tax loophole by requiring licensed online casino operators to pay tax in New Zealand.
Under the regime, the Department of Internal Affairs will oversee the sector using expanded enforcement tools. These include take-down notices, formal warnings, enforceable undertakings and financial penalties of up to NZ$5m for serious or repeated violations.
Van Velden said the measures would ensure that New Zealand law applies to all online casino gambling accessible within the country, regardless of where the operator is based. The aim is to prevent offshore operators from avoiding domestic oversight while strengthening the regulator’s ability to monitor compliance.
Submissions during the legislative process highlighted public expectations that revenue generated from online casino gambling should benefit local communities. The Minister said the Bill reflects those views by ensuring that a portion of gambling revenue is returned to community organisations, including sports clubs and grassroots groups.
Following its final reading, the Bill will proceed to Royal assent. Supporting regulations covering advertising standards, harm prevention, consumer protections and cost recovery fees are expected to be introduced later this year to operationalise the licensing system.
The Bill will proceed to Royal assent, with supporting regulations expected later this year
