Government Faces Pressure to Take Action on Online Gambling Advertising
The Albanese government has been facing mounting pressure to address the issue of online gambling advertising. Despite repeated questions in Parliament and calls from community groups, the government has yet to commit to a total ban on gambling ads. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese acknowledged the problem in a speech to Parliament, stating that the current saturation of gambling advertising, particularly when children are exposed to it, is unacceptable.
To tackle this issue comprehensively, the government has appointed the communications and social services ministers to develop a plan. Prime Minister Albanese emphasized that they want to avoid any unintended consequences and are taking a comprehensive approach. The government is currently in consultation to develop a proposed model for controlling online ads. Stakeholders from various sectors are providing their input, and the government is committed to a mature and orderly consultation process.
Communications Minister Michelle Rowland outlined the government’s three priorities in tackling online gambling advertising. First, they aim to address the normalization of wagering in sports. Second, they want to reduce children’s exposure to gambling ads. And finally, they aim to combat the saturation and targeting of advertisements, particularly online and towards vulnerable groups such as young men aged 18 to 45. Minister Rowland vehemently denied allegations that she had met with gambling executives numerous times, stating that the documents will show zero meetings took place.
Health Minister Mark Butler also weighed in on the issue, highlighting the potential mental health consequences of excessive gambling. While responsible gambling may be harmless, excessive gambling can lead to severe mental health issues. The government recognizes problem gambling as a mental illness and has already implemented significant measures to prevent and reduce harm.
The Alliance for Gambling Reform, a coalition of influential figures, including former state Premiers Dominic Perrottet, Jeff Kennett, and Steve Bracks, as well as former Prime Ministers Malcolm Turnbull and John Howard, sent a letter to Prime Minister Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton. The letter urged them to take decisive action on online gambling advertising. These prominent figures join the growing chorus of voices calling for stricter regulations and a total ban on gambling ads.
In conclusion, the Albanese government is under increasing pressure to address the issue of online gambling advertising. While they have acknowledged the problem, they have yet to commit to a complete ban. The government is currently undertaking a comprehensive approach, consulting with stakeholders and developing a proposed model for controlling online ads. They aim to tackle the normalization of wagering in sports, reduce children’s exposure to gambling ads, and combat the saturation and targeting of advertisements. The government also recognizes the mental health consequences of excessive gambling and has implemented measures to prevent harm. The support of influential figures adds weight to the calls for stricter regulations and a total ban on gambling ads.
