Independents Call for Ban on Online Gambling Ads
As the legacy of the late Labor MP Peta Murphy, independents are urging the federal government to implement a ban on online gambling ads. Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth has stated that the government is still considering a report recommending this action.
A cross-party committee, chaired by Murphy, delivered a report to the government in June, which included a key recommendation for a phased-in advertising ban over three years to address online gambling harm.
Labor MP Peta Murphy, who died on Monday, in the House of Representatives in November.Credit: Alex Ellinghausen
Murphy’s husband, Rod Glover, shared her final thoughts on the advertising ban on Thursday, three days after her passing at the age of 50 due to cancer.
“We recommended a staged three-year implementation of an advertising ban because we recognize this isn’t an easy or quick fix,” Murphy wrote in comments dated November 30.
Building on Peta Murphy’s Legacy
Independent senator David Pocock highlighted the rare support from both major parties and the crossbench for the committee report. He emphasized the opportunity to make a difference and honor Murphy’s legacy by implementing the recommended ban on gambling ads.
He stated, “The choice for government is do they do what the parliament has recommended and what most Australians want, or do they do what the gambling industry would like them to do?”
Controversy Surrounding the Ban
The gambling sector, sports bodies, and TV firms oppose an outright ban on gambling ads. On the other hand, the Greens, crossbenchers, and anti-gambling advocates support the ban.
Australians have the highest per capita spending on legal forms of gambling in the world, with losses amounting to $25 billion annually. The committee found that online gambling participation increased from 12.6% in 2010-11 to 30.7% in 2019.
Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth did not commit to an advertising ban but emphasized the government’s priority of harm reduction in online gambling. She stated that the report is receiving diligent attention.
Government Response and Stakeholder Perspectives
A spokesperson for Rishworth and Communications Minister Michelle Rowland, who share responsibility for gambling policy, stated that the government acknowledges Murphy’s advocacy for gambling harm reduction. Their response to the report will be announced in due course.
While government officials have been discussing limiting the frequency of gambling ads on TV and radio, independent MP Kate Chaney argued that partial bans have proven ineffective.
Support for the Ban
MPs Monique Ryan and Zoe Daniel expressed their support for a gambling ad ban to honor Murphy’s memory. Ryan suggested passing a Peta Murphy Bill to ban gambling advertising, stating it would be a fitting way to cement her legacy.
Daniel warned that failing to implement a ban would breach the government’s duty of care to communities.
Advocacy Groups Call for Action
Various advocacy groups, including the Salvation Army, Suicide Prevention Australia, and Anglicare, have written to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Michelle Rowland, urging the adoption of the committee’s recommendations. They argue that gambling advertising targets, manipulates, and exploits individuals.
Responsible Wagering Australia, a peak body for wagering service providers, acknowledges the changing community sentiment but opposes a ban. They believe blanket bans could lead to increased harm by driving people to illegal offshore markets.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, the debate over banning online gambling ads continues as independents call on the government to honor Peta Murphy’s legacy. While opposition from the gambling sector persists, support from advocacy groups and MPs emphasizes the need for action to reduce gambling harm. The government’s response to the committee’s recommendations remains under consideration, with a focus on harm reduction. The final decision will determine the future of online gambling advertising in Australia.
George Barham, an accomplished journalist and avid gambling enthusiast, serves as the esteemed Editor-in-Chief at fly-to-australia.com, Australia’s leading source for comprehensive gambling news and insights. With an unwavering passion for both the written word and the ever-evolving world of betting and gaming, George brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the helm of our editorial team.
