Final deals close on gambling, media and NDIS overhauls

The Australian government is finalizing deals to pass significant reforms in disability support, gambling advertising, and media funding. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been engaging with Liberal leader Angus Taylor to find common ground on the three major pieces of legislation after a five-week winter break. The NDIS reform recommendations from a Labor-led inquiry call for immediate passage of the legislation, despite opposition from disability advocates.

The coalition supports a proposed $38 billion funding cut over four years, citing the need to combat fraud within the scheme. The NDIS Minister remarks that recent measures have effectively removed undesirables from the system. Labor is working with all states and territories to ensure foundational supports are ready by 2028 when participants are removed from the scheme.

The News Bargaining Incentive adjustments are expected in the Senate soon, imposing additional taxes on tech companies that fail to secure funding agreements with eight news organizations. The gambling reforms remain uncertain due to the coalition's internal divisions, with the prime minister expressing confidence in the laws passing.

A Senate inquiry will likely report on Monday, paving the way for a final announcement. Meanwhile, Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is set to meet with Albanese in Canberra, following a Vietnam visit that resulted in stronger economic and defense ties.