Australia’s Labor government has secured Coalition backing for a significant overhaul of gambling advertising rules, marking a major step forward in the country’s long-running reform debate.
The two major parties have agreed to establish a single national register that would allow Australians to opt out of wagering advertisements across online platforms.
The opt-out register represents one of the most consumer-facing elements of the proposed legislation, giving punters direct control over the gambling marketing they are exposed to.
The reforms would also place strict new restrictions on inducements targeting vulnerable gamblers, a practice that has drawn sustained criticism from welfare advocates and public health groups.
Spending-based commissions for VIP account managers would also be cracked down on under the proposed amendments, removing a financial incentive that critics argue encourages harmful gambling behaviour.
With shadow cabinet now backing the bill, the legislation is widely expected to pass through parliament in the coming weeks, ending a prolonged political deadlock on the issue.
However, the path to passage may not be entirely smooth, with dissent already emerging from within Liberal ranks over the scope of the proposed measures.
Liberal sources have told the ABC that some within the party are considering crossing the floor because they believe the laws still will not be strong enough.
The prospect of floor-crossing signals that a faction of lawmakers believes the reforms, despite their breadth, fall short of what is needed to adequately protect Australian consumers from gambling-related harm.
The debate around gambling advertising has intensified considerably in Australia in recent years, with pressure mounting on lawmakers from community groups, health organisations, and campaigners pushing for tougher restrictions.
The opt-out register in particular has been seen as a practical and immediate measure that could reduce unsolicited wagering content reaching consumers who wish to avoid it.
Industry observers will be watching closely to see whether the bill passes in its current form or whether floor-crossing lawmakers succeed in pushing for stronger provisions before the final vote.
