Valve requires credit cards for Steam age verification in Australia

Valve has implemented a new age verification system for Steam users in Australia to comply with the Age-Restricted Material App Distribution Services Code. This mandate requires digital platforms to verify that users are at least 18 years old before they can access or purchase games with an R18+ classification.

Unlike competitors such as PlayStation, Xbox, and Epic Games—which offer various verification methods including government ID checks, facial age estimation, or account longevity—Valve has restricted its verification process to the use of an active Australian credit card. Reports indicate that debit cards, PayPal, and other digital wallets are not accepted as sufficient proof of age.

This requirement has raised concerns regarding consumer accessibility, as credit card ownership has declined in Australia. Data suggests that approximately half of Australian consumers do not hold a credit card, with adoption rates dropping even lower among young adults aged 18 to 24. Additionally, the credit card must remain attached to the Steam account even if the user does not intend to make further purchases.