MPs push Australian government for gambling ad ban

MPs say a ban on gambling advertising would pass a parliamentary vote.

Australia.- MPs are again pushing the Australian government for a ban on gambling advertising. Representatives from across the political spectrum now say a ban could pass if put to a vote.

Labour MP Mike Freelander told the ABC that multi-party support is now strong enough to secure a ban, and that that “a conscience vote” in Parliament would likely succeed. That assessment has been backed by Liberal MP Simon Kennedy and independent Kate Chaney, co-chairs of the revived Parliamentary Friends of Gambling Harm Minimisation. They say political will is growing and that the government has been slow to respond to the recommendations of a 2023 inquiry into online gambling.

ACT independent senator David Pocock, said a ban could pass “any day of the week”, and accused Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of delaying action despite broad support.

Advocates for for reform are expected in Canberra this week to present new research supporting the creation of a national gambling regulator, amid concerns about the Northern Territory’s licensing model for online gambling. The industry has opposed calls for reform. Responsible Wagering Australia argues the priority should be improving existing protections rather than creating new regulatory layers, and has warned about offshore operators avoiding oversight.

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See also: Responsible Wagering Australia calls for stricter measures against offshore gambling sites

MPs say a ban on gambling advertising would pass a parliamentary vote. Australia.- MPs are again pushing the Australian government for a ban on gambling advertising. Representatives from across the…