Australian MP proposes public health classification for gambling harm

A private member’s bill seeks to strengthen national data collection and policy coordination.

Australia.- A private member’s bill introduced by independent MP Monique Ryan would require the Australian Centre for Disease Control to recognise gambling harm as a significant public health concern. Ryan argues that such recognition would enhance the quality and scope of national data, enabling more evidence-based strategies and long-term policy planning.

Independent MP Sophie Scamps has backed the call, arguing that it would help policymakers better understand the social and economic dimensions associated with gambling activity. Advocacy organisations, including Wesley Mission, have also expressed support for a stronger public health framework.

If adopted, the bill would not directly introduce new operational restrictions on gambling products. The federal government, led by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, has defended its current approach, highlighting measures such as the BetStop national self-exclusion register and the ban on the use of credit cards for online gambling. Officials say these initiatives form part of what they describe as the most significant harm-reduction steps introduced in the past decade.

See also:

See also: ACMA shares BetStop statistics for Q2

A private member’s bill seeks to strengthen national data collection and policy coordination. Australia.- A private member’s bill introduced by independent MP Monique Ryan would require the Australian Centre for Disease Control to recognise gambling harm as a significant public health concern. Ryan argues that such recognition would enhance the quality and scope of national…