Key facts
- Liberal MP Simon Kennedy described Labor's gambling advertising reforms as a 'capitulation' to the industry.
- The proposed reforms include restrictions on TV and radio ads, online ad opt-outs for users over 18, and bans on celebrity endorsements.
- Coalition MPs, including Andrew Wallace, argued that Labor's proposed measures are weaker than previous policies.
- The Greens, represented by Sarah Hanson-Young, also criticized the reforms as insufficient, particularly regarding protections for young people.
- The government plans to implement a levy on wagering companies to fund a public ad campaign for the national self-exclusion register, BetStop.
- Concerns have been raised by both the gambling industry and harm reduction advocates regarding the rushed consultation process for the legislation.
Liberal MPs have criticized the Australian Labor government's proposed reforms to gambling advertising, with some labeling them a 'capitulation' to the industry and 'half-arsed.' Simon Kennedy, the Liberal member for Cook, stated that the legislation falls short on advertising restrictions, inducements, and protections for children, arguing it prioritizes vested interests over Australian families. He recounted personal experiences with gambling harm, including suicides linked to the industry.
Andrew Wallace, another Liberal MP, pointed out that the former opposition leader Peter Dutton's policy on banning TV ads one hour before and after sporting matches was more stringent than Labor's current proposal. He claimed Labor's plan had 'so many holes through it.' The Coalition, along with the Greens and crossbenchers, are urging the government to implement tougher measures, casting doubt on whether the bill will pass into law.
Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young echoed the criticism, calling the reforms 'half-arsed' and demanding a parliamentary inquiry. She highlighted concerns that children are exposed to gambling ads during live sports and that young people are bombarded online. Hanson-Young urged the government to 'grow a spine' and confront the gambling lobby and large online media companies.
Communications Minister Anika Wells defended the reforms as 'significant' and expressed concern that an extended Senate inquiry could delay their implementation, which is slated for January 1, 2027. She argued that further consultation was unnecessary given the three years of public discussion on the issue. The reform package also includes a levy on wagering companies to fund a new public ad campaign for BetStop, the national self-exclusion register.
Both the gambling industry and harm reduction advocates have expressed dissatisfaction with the government's consultation process, citing its brevity. Despite this, Wells indicated a focus on proceeding with the reforms.