Wagering body welcomes review of gambling ad legislation

Australia’s leading wagering industry lobby group has welcomed a Senate Inquiry into the Government’s gambling advertising legislation, arguing the bill contains “draconian and overreaching” provisions that go beyond its stated policy objectives.

Responsible Wagering Australia’s Chief Executive Officer Kai Cantwell said the organisation had engaged constructively with the Government and put forward a range of recommendations aimed at improving the legislation and providing greater certainty for industry participants.

RWA’s feedback focused on clarifying key aspects of the proposed framework, including how celebrities and social media influencers would be treated under the advertising restrictions.

It also raised concerns about what it described as practical implementation challenges that could arise if the legislation proceeds in its current form.

“Despite participating in the consultation process, the industry’s recommendations have not been adopted,” Cantwell said.

Federal Communications Minister Anika Wells introduced the Interactive Gambling Amendment (Gambling Reform) Bill 2026 to Parliament on Thursday, but passage will be delayed until at least August.

The industry body welcomed the decision to refer the legislation to a Senate Inquiry, which it believes will provide lawmakers with an opportunity to examine the bill in greater detail.

“We welcome the referral of the legislation to a Senate Inquiry, which will provide a real opportunity to publicly examine the draconian and overreaching elements of this Bill and ensure Parliament has the opportunity to correct provisions that extend well beyond the Government’s stated policy intent,” Cantwell said.

RWA said it intends to continue engaging with policymakers throughout the inquiry process and will advocate for changes it believes will make the legislation more balanced and effective.

“RWA remains committed to engaging with Parliament throughout the Inquiry to ensure the final legislation is effective, proportionate and delivers the intended outcomes for punters and industry,” he said.

Labor will need the support of either the Coalition or The Greens to get the bill through both houses.

It intends to bring the new advertising laws into effect on January 1.