Gambling ad crackdown could be pulled if Senate demands go too far

Labor is hesitant to make significant changes to its gambling ad crackdown, despite the bill being without support in the Senate. The Coalition, Greens, and crossbenchers all demand substantial amendments to the legislation, which aims to protect children and vulnerable Australians from gambling harms. A gambling harm advocate cautioned that it would be "brave" for the Labor Party to abandon the reforms.

Labor may consider abandoning its proposed limitations on gambling advertising rather than agreeing to substantial changes, potentially leaving advocates with nothing. The Albanese government's draft legislation currently lacks support in the Senate, with all major parties calling for sweeping amendments to further safeguard vulnerable Australians.

However, a senior Labor source indicated that the bill would more likely be withdrawn and existing restrictions retained if it fails to gain support. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed similar sentiments during a recent Question Time session, stating that the parliament should vote for the bill if it is not strengthened. Labor remains hopeful that the bill will ultimately secure support from the Coalition, which has expressed concerns but not yet submitted any amendments.

Communications Minister Anika Wells stated that she is engaging in constructive discussions with both the Coalition and the Greens, and will await proposed amendments. Labor's plan would limit TV gambling ads to three per hour between 6am and 8:30pm, restrict them during school drop-off and pick-up times on radio, and ban logos on player jerseys or promotions in stadiums.

Underage Australians would be blocked from viewing gambling ads, while adults would have the option to opt-out across all online platforms via a "triple lock" system. Alliance for Gambling Reform chief advocate Tim Costello warned that it would be "very brave" for the Labor Party to walk away from the reforms, citing support from unions and Labor branches.

Shadow Communications Minister Sarah Henderson confirmed that the Coalition would not back Labor's bill in its current form, citing deficiencies such as the untested "triple lock" proposal and the lack of measures to address gambling inducements. The Greens are also pushing for major changes to the bill.