Australia’s Green Party introduces bill for comprehensive gambling ad ban, government response to Murphy Report expected by year-end

This week, on October 9, Australia’s Green Party submitted a bill to the Senate calling for a complete ban on gambling advertisements across the country. This marks the latest development in a long-running debate among politicians about how the Labour government should handle the increasing prevalence of gambling ads. The government has indicated it will reveal its stance on the issue by the end of 2023.

Since June, the government has been deliberating over its response to the 2023 Murphy Report, which recommended 31 reforms for Australia’s gambling sector. Media agencies have been in discussions with the government about the challenges they could face if gambling ads are banned, with the government assuring that all relevant stakeholders are being consulted.

Despite this, several politicians and addiction charities have backed the call for a ban, accusing the government of ignoring their concerns. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has dismissed these demands, suggesting in September that campaigners are primarily focused on banning gambling altogether.

Communications Minister Michelle Rowland told ABC TV on October 11 that she plans to announce a strategy to address gambling ads by the end of 2024. However, with only three parliamentary sitting weeks left before November’s recess, time is running short.

“We are examining the most robust ways to minimize the harm caused by these ads,” Rowland said.

Green Party Pushes for Inquiry into Murphy Report Response

The Green Party’s bill, the Interactive Gambling Amendment (Ban Gambling Ads) Bill 2024, seeks to outlaw gambling ads on television, radio, print, and online platforms. The bill passed its second reading in the Senate on October 9, with proponents arguing that a comprehensive ban could help curb risky betting behaviors and reduce harm to communities.

“This ban has been recommended repeatedly by experts and is supported by the public. It’s what the community expects,” the bill states, further criticizing major parties for their perceived reluctance to confront the gambling lobby.

Green Senator Sarah Hanson-Young, the bill’s champion, also called for the Environment and Communications References Committee to investigate the impact of gambling ads on Australian families, children, and communities. She has also raised concerns about the government’s slow response to the Murphy Report, accusing them of inaction in safeguarding vulnerable groups from gambling harm.

During the debate, Hanson-Young referenced a unanimous report from over a year ago, which recommended a total ban on gambling ads. She criticized the lack of progress, saying, “Those recommendations are sitting on a shelf in the minister’s office, not being acted upon.”

The debate on the bill was adjourned, with Hanson-Young expected to continue her speech later.

Concerns About Media Reliance on Gambling Ads

In the debate, Hanson-Young also responded to comments from government minister Bill Shorten, who defended free-to-air media, warning that a gambling ad ban could severely impact its funding. She countered by saying, “If our media has to rely on gambling addiction to stay afloat, then we’re in real trouble.”

What’s Next for the Bill?

In Australia’s Senate, a bill goes through two readings before it can advance to the Senate committee phase, where it may be subject to further inquiry. If it passes this stage, the wider Senate will debate and vote on its final version. If successful, the bill must receive royal assent from the sovereign to become law.