The Australia Senate will ban the use of credits cards in online gambling, with massive fines for betting companies that fail to implement the new restrictions in the next six months.

The Bill will illegalise the use of credit cards and digital currencies in online wagering and slap fines up to $234,750 on companies that don’t enforce the ban. 

Communications Minister Michelle Rowland said the legislation would protect vulnerable Australians and their families. 

“It’s as simple as this: People should not be betting with money they do not have,” she said. 

“The Australian government remains committed to protecting Australians from gambling harms.”

Credit cards are already prohibited from “land-based” wagering. 

The Bill would gives the minister the power to prohibit future credit-related products as they emerge to keep the legislation up-to-date with technological changes.