Key facts
- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will limit gambling inducements as part of a deal with the Coalition.
- New rules on gambling advertising are also being considered.
- The legislation aims to address concerns about problem gambling and protect vulnerable individuals.
- The government is also negotiating with the Coalition on NDIS spending and the news bargaining incentive.
- The Greens and crossbenchers are pushing for stronger anti-gambling measures.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has indicated a willingness to compromise on gambling inducements and advertising rules to secure a deal with the Coalition on new legislation. This move follows pressure from a parliamentary inquiry and concerns raised about the impact of gambling on vulnerable individuals and problem gamblers.
Albanese met with Opposition Leader Angus Taylor to negotiate the terms of the bill. He promised to implement limits on inducements, which are designed to encourage continued betting, and introduce new, unspecified rules regarding gambling advertising. The Prime Minister stated that the proposed legislation would be the strongest of its kind in Australia's history, aiming to strike a balance between recreational gambling and addressing problem gambling, including reducing children's exposure.
Discussions also reportedly involved potential agreements on cuts to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and the news bargaining incentive. A deal on gambling is anticipated to be finalised following a Coalition partyroom meeting, though it is expected to face opposition from the Greens and crossbenchers who advocate for more stringent measures.
Recent testimony from former NRL player Luke Bateman and anti-gambling campaigner Tim Costello highlighted allegations of gambling companies providing illicit drugs, alcohol, and sex workers to high-spending gamblers. However, major betting companies have denied these claims. A parliamentary committee had previously recommended the prohibition of all online gambling inducements without delay.