Australian Government Denies Finalizing Gambling Ad Ban Despite Media Reports

Sky News Australia reported on Tuesday that the federal government was set to introduce an almost immediate ban on online gambling ads, particularly across social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and X, in an effort to address the high levels of marketing targeting users.

The report also suggested that a partial ban on TV advertising would come into effect by 2026, allowing broadcasters and gambling operators to fulfill their existing contractual obligations.

However, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese dismissed these claims during a press conference held simultaneously with the release of the Sky News report.

The government has not come to a conclusion, we’re in discussions.

Anthony Albanese

Albanese stated, adding that the government is engaging in consultations to ensure that the reforms are appropriately implemented.

The Prime Minister highlighted his government’s ongoing efforts to tackle problem gambling, citing the introduction of a register to assist problem gamblers, changes to credit card usage for gambling, and modifications to the rules and declarations associated with advertising.

We’re continuing to engage with media organizations, sporting organizations, as well as the anti-gambling lobby.

Anthony Albanese

Albanese said, emphasizing the government’s constructive approach to the issue.

Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth also confirmed that the government is not currently discussing the establishment of an independent national online gambling regulator with state and territory governments, contrary to the recommendations made in the 2023 Murphy Report.

Proposed Watered-Down Version of Gambling Ad Ban

While the government has yet to finalize its decision on the proposed gambling advertising reforms, reports in July suggested that a watered-down version of the originally proposed ‘Murphy’s Law’ gambling ad ban was under consideration.

This version would prohibit gambling ads during children’s programming, within an hour before, during, and after sports broadcasts, and limit them to two per hour in general programming.

Anti-gambling groups have criticized the government’s decision to deviate from the Murphy Report’s recommendations, which called for a blanket ban on gambling marketing across all media channels.

However, government ministers have argued that a full ban would significantly undermine free-to-air media in the country, as they rely on gambling ad revenue for their survival.

Minister Bill Shorten, during an episode of ABC’s Q&A programme on 12 August, expressed the government’s view that gambling should not be normalized for children, particularly in the digital space where video games encourage gambling.

Shorten also raised concerns about the influence of tech giants like Facebook on news feeds, emphasizing the need for a sensible solution that does not jeopardize the existence of free-to-air media.

Awaiting Final Decision on Gambling Advertising Reforms

As discussions continue, the Australian public awaits a final decision from the government on the proposed gambling advertising reforms, which aim to strike a balance between protecting vulnerable individuals and maintaining the viability of the media industry.