Gambling transaction blocks on credit and debit cards
Several Australian banks and financial institutions have recently introduced options that allow customers to block gambling transactions on their credit and debit cards.
Upon request, a block will usually be activated immediately. 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.
We have collated below information about options currently available to customers at some banks. In addition, the Foundation’s Submission to the Australian Banking Association consultation on the use of credit cards for gambling transactions is available here.
If you struggle with or are negatively affected by gambling – your own or someone else’s – you can access free, confidential Gambler’s Help support 24/7 on 1800 858 858.
Bank of Melbourne
Blocks apply to credit cards only.
Call the Customer Care team on 132 266 between 9am and 6pm, Monday through Friday.
For more information: 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 receive an SMS to notify them when the block has been activated.
Call the Financial Assist Sensitive Matters team on 1300 720 814 between 8am and 6pm, Monday through Friday.
For more information: 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.
Westpac
Blocks can be applied to credit and debit cards.
Sign in to online banking and activate gambling block in the card services menu or call the Customer Care team on 131 900 between 9am and 6pm, Monday through Friday.
For more information: westpac.com.au/personal-banking/credit-cards/manage/gambling-preference/.
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: https://www.anz.com.au/support/gambling/
The following banks and financial institutions prohibit all gambling transactions on credit cards:
- American Express
- Bank Australia
- Bank of Queensland
- Citi
- Credit Union of Australia (CUA)
- Macquarie Bank
- Suncorp
- Virgin Money
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.