Gambling transaction blocks on credit and debit cards

Gambling transaction blocks on credit and debit cards

Credit cards have been banned for gambling in-person at hotels, clubs, casinos and TAB outlets since the early 2000s. Credit cards can still be used to gamble online but in 2023, the government introduced legislation that would ban them. At the moment, the decision to allow these transactions remains with individual banks, credit card providers and businesses.

Several Australian banks and financial institutions have automatic gambling blocks on credit or debit cards (see below for a list). Some Australian banks and financial institutions have introduced optional tools that allow customers to block gambling transactions on their credit and debit cards.

For opt-in blocks, it will usually be activated immediately upon request. The amount of time it takes to lift a block differs, but it is generally up to two business days.

The process of blocking gambling transactions on credit/debit cards varies between banks and financial institutions. In most instances, customers must make a request, but some banks and institutions offer customers the option of doing it themselves via a smartphone app.

In some cases, a block will not be ongoing. The customer must nominate the period of time they wish the block to apply before it expires.

These types of initiatives are not always actively promoted, so anyone wishing to block gambling transactions on their cards is encouraged to familiarise themselves with the relevant policies and/or to make specific enquiries of their bank or financial institution.

Below is some information about options currently available to customers at some banks.

If you are experiencing gambling harm – from your own or someone else’s gambling – there are many ways to get information and support. Visit our Gambling Help webpages for more information.

If it’s time to take a break from gambling, you can choose to exclude yourself from gambling at licensed gambling venues in the ACT and/or Australian-licensed interactive wagering (online and phone gambling) services. Visit our Excluding from gambling webpage for more information.

Financial institutions with optional blocking tools

ANZ

A gambling block can be applied to eligible cards using the ANZ App, without needing to call or visit the bank.

Transactions that are identified as being for a gambling or gaming purpose will be declined if you’ve used 85% or more of your credit limit, or if the transaction would take your balance to 85% or more of your credit limit if it was processed.

For more information visit anz.com.au/support/gambling/

Bank of Melbourne

The gambling block feature is available on all eligible personal credit cards and debit cards. Login to Internet Banking and activate gambling block in the Card Services menu or call the Customer Care team on 13 22 66 between Monday to Saturday 8:00am – 8:00pm EST.

For more information visit bankofmelbourne.com.au/personal/credit-cards/manage/gambling-preference#qbodypar_bodyfaq-1 .

Commonwealth Bank

Blocks can be applied to credit and debit cards. Customers commit to a set period of time and the block will be applied immediately.

Call the Community Wellbeing team on 1800 222 387 between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday.

For more information visit commbank.com.au/support/gambling-support.html .

National Australia Bank (NAB)

Blocks can be applied to credit and debit cards, including via the NAB smartphone app.

Primary card holders, additional card holders, people who hold a power of attorney, and people who have third-party access to another person’s internet banking can apply for a block.

For more information call NAB Customer Support on 1300 308 175 or visit nab.com.au/personal/customer-support/gambling-restriction .

St George Bank

Block gambling transactions on eligible credit and debit cards through your St George App, Internet Banking or by calling 13 33 30.

For more information visit stgeorge.com.au/personal/credit-cards/manage/gambling-preference

Westpac

Blocks can be applied to credit and debit cards.

Call the Customer Care team on 131 900 between 9am and 6pm, Monday through Friday.

For more information visit westpac.com.au/personal-banking/credit-cards/manage/gambling-preference/ .

Financial institutions with automatic blocks

Some banks now ban the use of gambling services on their credit cards altogether. These banks may allow the use of their debit cards for gambling services.

For further information about credit cards and gambling transactions visit finder.com.au/gambling-transactions-using-your-credit-card-are-they-allowed.

Note: This list is not intended as a comprehensive guide relating to gambling transactions and banks. For advice, please contact your bank or financial institution.