Australia’s gambling reform bill faces uncertain future amid political deadlock
Labour continues negotiations on its proposed gambling advertising restrictions as the Coalition, Greens and crossbench push for stronger measures.
Australia.- The Australian government’s proposed gambling reform bill faces an uncertain future having failed to receive support from the Coalition, the Greens or crossbench senators. The deadlock raises the possibility that the legislation could be withdrawn if major amendments are required.
The Coalition has said it will not support the bill without significant amendments, arguing that it weakens some existing advertising restrictions and does not go far enough in addressing gambling inducements. It’s expected to present proposed amendments in the coming days. The Greens and several independent senators are also seeking more significant reforms, including a complete ban on gambling advertising and the creation of a national gambling regulator.
Labour Communications Minister Anika Wells has said the government remains open to changes and that negotiations with opposition parties are continuing in an effort to secure Senate approval, but the government has also warned it could withdraw the bill if substantial rewrites are required.
Labour’s proposal would limit gambling advertisements on free-to-air television to three per hour between 6am and 8.30pm, ban gambling ads on radio during school drop-off and pick-up periods, and prohibit betting logos on players’ uniforms and inside sports venues. The bill would also introduce new rules for gambling advertising on digital platforms.
Following a Senate inquiry this week, pressure increased for a ban on gambling inducements amid allegations that VIP betting programs used incentives to encourage excessive gambling. Betting operators denied the allegations.
