Responsible Wagering Australia has expressed significant concerns regarding the Australian government’s recent decision to exclude wagering companies from accessing Research and Development (R&D) Tax Incentives.

In an official statement, the CEO of RWA, Kai Cantwell, claimed that the Australian taxation system, “traditionally seen as neutral and immune to moral judgment”, is being used to “promote ideological agendas at the expense of jobs, innovation, and investment”.

He emphasized that the exclusion of wagering companies from R&D support creates risks not only for the industry but also for the broader Australian economy.

R&D Tax Incentives are designed to enhance competitiveness and productivity by encouraging industries to undertake research that might not otherwise occur.

Cantwell pointed out that these incentives are meant to be sector-agnostic and free from government interference, thus supporting industries that contribute to job creation and economic growth.

“Our industry was not consulted by the Government on this decision,” he said. “This is not how governments should engage with industry, and it’s not the way to achieve effective policy outcomes.”

The executive expressed concern that the government’s actions set a dangerous precedent, suggesting that any industry could become a target if taxation is used as a bargaining chip in political negotiations.

“This slippery slope opens the door for tax policy to become a tool of moral judgment rather than a driver of economic growth,” Cantwell warned. He noted that if he represented industries facing similar criticisms, such as fast food or fossil fuels, he would share similar concerns about the implications of this decision.

The online wagering industry contributes significantly to the Australian economy, supporting 80,000 jobs and generating over AU$6 billion ($3.7 billion) annually, along with more than AU$2 billion ($1.2 billion) in taxes and levies each year.

Cantwell argued that the R&D framework should encourage investment in Australia, rather than drive R&D jobs to countries with more favorable incentives.

“The Government should collaborate with wagering companies to enhance safety for Australians and sustainability for the industry,” asserted Cantwell. He reaffirmed that the industry remains committed to investing in consumer protections, with or without government support.

“Australian technology and innovation are world-leading, driving local growth and being adopted by global companies.”

Cantwell called on the government to reconsider its exclusion of wagering companies from R&D incentives and to engage in meaningful consultation with industry stakeholders. “We need tax policy that supports innovation, economic growth, and jobs,” he concluded.

Responsible Wagering Australia is the leading independent body for Australian-licensed wagering service providers.