Albanese Defends Partial Gambling Ad Ban

PM Responds to Calls for Stronger Advertising Restrictions

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese argued that more extensive gambling regulation would infringe on individual freedoms, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to minimizing gambling harm where possible.

Albanese addressed concerns over the government’s reported reluctance to fully implement recommendations from the Murphy Report, a landmark inquiry that proposed a phased total ban on gambling ads. Instead, the government appears to favor more targeted restrictions, a decision that has sparked national debate.

The prime minister explained that the government’s approach would focus on areas where gambling advertisements disproportionately affect children. He also acknowledged the need to reduce the close association between gambling and sports in Australia.

“I do not believe that the state has an absolute right to determine the behaviour of individuals across the board,” Albanese said. “What I do believe, though, is that we have a responsibility to restrict the damage that harmful advertising can do.”

Murphy Report’s Proposed Total Ban Sparks Debate

The Murphy Report, led by the late Labor MP Peta Murphy, recommended a total gambling ad ban, which was expected to be implemented by the government. However, recent reports suggest a partial ban instead.

This includes limiting gambling ads on TV to two per hour until 10 p.m. and banning ads before and after live sports events. In addition, a full ban on gambling advertisements on social media and digital platforms was proposed.

This departure from a total ban has sparked criticism from gambling reform campaigners and political figures alike, including four former Australian prime ministers who publicly urged the government to adopt the full range of reforms recommended in the Murphy Report.

Campaigners Criticize Partial Ban

Rev. Tim Costello, chief advocate for the Alliance for Gambling Reform, was one of the leading voices opposing the partial ban. Costello rejected claims that he advocates for a total prohibition on gambling and instead called for stricter measures to limit advertising.

“I have never been advocating for a ban on gambling, I believe people should have the option to gamble,” Costello clarified. “But we do not need to be bombarded with literally a million plus ads every year imploring us to gamble.”

Costello also highlighted the need for the prime minister to engage directly with those affected by gambling harm. He warned that by pursuing only a partial ban, the government may be seen as siding with wealthy bookmakers rather than protecting vulnerable populations, particularly children.

Albanese Defends Balance Between Freedom and Regulation

In response to these criticisms, Albanese reiterated that the government’s approach seeks to balance individual liberties with the need to reduce gambling harm. He emphasized that a total ban on gambling or racing would amount to an inappropriate intrusion into personal freedoms.

While acknowledging the input of anti-gambling advocates, Albanese stood by his position, stating that the government would focus on implementing measures that target the most harmful aspects of gambling advertising while respecting personal choice.

The debate over gambling reform continues as the government faces growing pressure to adopt a more comprehensive approach.