Does the Minister intend that online casinos verify the age of all customers using their platform or only new customers, in the new regulations released in June 2026, and what part of the regulations does he believe relates to this intention, if any?

Answer

The Online Casino Gambling Regulations 2026 require operators to verify that customers are at least 18 years old before they can first access and use their account. This requirement is set out in regulations 16(b) and 17(1)(a). Licensed operators must meet this, and all regulatory requirements, from the first day they operate under a licence. They must be able to demonstrate that all customers, including existing customers, meet those requirements. Existing customers will not necessarily be required to repeat the full registration and verification process where an operator is satisfied that appropriate age verification has already occurred and can demonstrate compliance with the regulatory requirements. Where this cannot be demonstrated, the operator must take appropriate action before allowing the customer to continue gambling on its platform. This approach supports the Government's objective of reducing gambling harm and strengthening consumer protections.