Gambling ad ban fight ramps up again in parliament

Independent MP Kate Chaney has introduced a private members’ bill to the lower house of federal parliament to ban gambling ads.

Chaney’s bill, which has no major party support, has been filed as a key milestone was passed in the delay of federal government-led reform of the wagering sector.   

“This Bill delivers on a cornerstone recommendation of the You Win Some, You Lose More report, which was released more than 1,000 days ago,” she said.

“The gambling companies and lobbyists have their voices heard loudly and often. Today, I spoke up for the people who deserve to be heard – those impacted by gambling industry harm – but don’t have a seat at the table.”

Chaney was on the bipartisan parliamentary committee which delivered the You win Some, You Lose More report in mid-2023.

“It’s designed to ban the most high-impact ads and ad times first, while giving broadcasting companies time to manage the losses to their ad revenue,” she said

“By the end of the three years, all ads for online gambling would be banned from television, streaming services, social media, stadiums, buildings and beyond. The Prime Minister wants people to take personal responsibility, but it’s not a fair fight for people to go up against billion-dollar companies.”

“This bill makes the fight slightly fairer. It does not ban gambling, and that’s not what I’m advocating for.”