The Australian – South Australia will seek co-operation from computer giant Apple to classify apps and other internet games that simulate gambling to help prevent access by children.
The government plans to make it an offence to supply gambling apps or games to minors, making SA the first jurisdiction in Australia to do so.
It will contact Apple about the move and says the computer company can comply with the new trading conditions to apply in South Australia.
The government will also prepare a watch list of gambling-like apps and games so that parents can be better informed about what to monitor.
“Research has shown that early exposure to gambling-like games may lead to some children developing problem gambling habits later in life,” Premier Jay Weatherill said on Monday.
“I won’t stand back and watch a new generation of gambling addicts emerge.
“So we are going to lead the nation again by taking these steps.”
Mr Weatherill said police now patrol the internet just as they patrol the streets, but new risks continue to emerge.
“Our children are more savvy than ever before at using technology and we need to
be alert to the effects on children’s behaviour and development,” he said.
