Under pressure Labor refuses to commit to new gambling ad legislation before election (9 Oct 2024)
Article summary: Federal Communications Minister Michelle Rowland has indicated that the Labor government will outline its plans on gambling advertising before the next election. However, she did not confirm whether these plans would include new legislation, despite acknowledging the need to reduce gambling-related harms. The government’s response is expected to incorporate input from states, territories, and regulators, and may focus on measures like restricting ad frequency rather than enacting a full ban.
The delay in the government’s response to the June 2023 report by the late MP Peta Murphy, which recommended a complete ban on gambling advertising, has drawn criticism. With only a few parliamentary sitting days remaining in 2024 and a possible early election in March 2025, there is pressure on the government to act quickly.
Advocates like Tim Costello and members of the Gambling Harm Lived Experience Experts group have highlighted the ongoing harm caused by gambling ads, urging a complete ban rather than partial restrictions.
Kate Chaney, the member for Curtin and a member of Murphy’s inquiry committee, criticised Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for evading decisive action on the issue. Chaney emphasised the need to prioritise community concerns over industry interests.
Advocates stress that a delay in action continues to expose young Australians to gambling risks, with ongoing concerns about the normalisation of betting, especially among teenagers.
Related article: Crossbench briefed on proposed gambling ad reform (21 Aug 2024)
