AUSTRIA TO FORM NEW GAMBLING REGULATOR & CRACK DOWN ON UNLICENSED OPERATORS

Austria is planning to overhaul its gambling regulatory framework, with the aim of increasing player protection and transparency. 

The shakeup, announced by Finance Minister Gernot Blümel, will see a new gambling supervisory authority created. The new body will take over responsibility for licensing and enforcement of regulations from the Austrian Treasury. 

Regarding planned changes Blümel said: “Player protection is of particular importance, as gambling is a very sensitive area for players, their families and for society, which also carries considerable risks. Players are often affected by addiction and as a consequence confronted with financial, psychological and existential issues.”

To achieve the stated aims, the new regulatory body is expected to introduce significant new controls on legal gambling, and new measures against illegal operators, including forcing ISPs to block sites. 

One measure that is certain to be introduced is a national self-exclusion system, covering both land-based and online gambling.