In November 2025, Australian Labor MP Dr. Mike Freelander emphasized the urgent need for a parliamentary conscience vote on banning gambling advertisements, framing it as a critical public health issue. His stance is echoed by Liberal MP Simon Kennedy and independent MP Kate Chaney, both serving as co-chairs of the reinvigorated Parliamentary Friends of Gambling Harm Minimization group.
The call to action comes amidst growing dissatisfaction with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s administration, which critics argue has been sluggish in implementing the recommendations of the 2023 inquiry into online gambling. In contrast, Dr. Freelander, possessing extensive experience as a pediatrician in Western Sydney, refrains from directly criticizing the Prime Minister but underscores that gambling advertising poses significant public health challenges. He draws parallels to historical anti-tobacco campaigns, expressing belief in eventual progress similar to past public health victories.
Freelander’s experience with families and children affected by gambling informs his belief that reform is necessary to mitigate harm. He clarifies that his advocacy is not about imposing a total gambling ban but rather addressing the targeted nature of gambling ads that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. The comparison with tobacco advertising from the 1960s and 1970s underlines confidence in achieving comparable reform.
Kennedy criticizes the perceived delay from the government, arguing that Australians deserve swifter action on gambling harm. He highlights a bipartisan commitment within parliament to tackle the issue, driven by personal encounters with families devastated by gambling-related tragedies, including poignant suicide notes. This emotional testimony fuels his drive for co-chairing the parliamentary group.
Kate Chaney observes significant political support for gambling reforms across party lines, asserting that the crossbench vocalizes constituent concerns. Yet, she contends that the Prime Minister’s reluctance to advance reforms makes participation in the Parliamentary Friends of Gambling Harm Minimization group a crucial means for Labor MPs to showcase constituent support for substantial change.
The group plans to welcome reform advocates in Canberra this Wednesday, where they will present new research advocating for a national regulatory body for the gambling industry. Martin Thomas, CEO of the Alliance for Gambling Reform, criticizes the current regulatory framework. He points out how the Northern Territory has become a “regulatory haven” for foreign bookmakers by offering a combination of low taxes, minimal oversight, and swift licensing. This loophole enables international companies to bypass more stringent regulations present in other states by operating under a singular NT license.
Research commissioned by the alliance highlights that a small fraction—approximately 1%—of online gamblers are responsible for over 40% of total financial losses. This demographic largely consists of employed males aged 25 to 44, many of whom face financial pressures, such as mortgages and raising children, compounded by mental health challenges.
While the push for reform gains momentum, not everyone agrees with the proposed approach. Critics argue that a complete ban on gambling advertisements could lead to unintended consequences, such as pushing gambling activities underground or diverting advertising funds to less regulated areas. They suggest that more robust regulation, rather than an outright ban, could better balance industry interests with public health concerns.
In response to these criticisms, proponents of the ban argue that the potential societal benefits far outweigh the risks. They emphasize that effective enforcement of advertising bans could significantly reduce exposure to gambling and its associated harms, especially among young and vulnerable populations. They point to international examples where advertising restrictions have successfully curbed problematic gambling behaviors.
The debate continues within Australian politics as stakeholders weigh the merits of various regulatory strategies. While the Parliamentary Friends of Gambling Harm Minimization group’s efforts signal significant progress, the road ahead remains fraught with challenges. Policymakers must navigate complex industry interests, public health considerations, and international regulatory precedents to devise a comprehensive strategy that effectively addresses gambling-related harm.
The conversation surrounding gambling advertisements in Australia reflects broader global discussions on how governments should balance economic interests with the imperative to protect public health. As Australian politicians press for decisive action, the outcome of this debate could set a precedent for other nations grappling with similar issues. Whether through a ban or more nuanced regulatory measures, the goal remains clear: to safeguard communities from the detrimental effects of gambling while fostering a more responsible and transparent industry.
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