Labor could shelve gambling bill rather than accept major changes
Labor may abandon its gambling ad reform bill rather than accept major amendments sought by opponents.Summary
The Albanese government is considering shelving its proposed gambling advertising reform bill rather than agree to substantial changes demanded by the Coalition, Greens, and crossbenchers. The bill aims to limit gambling ads on TV and radio, ban logos on jerseys, and implement a 'triple lock' opt-out system for online platforms. However, opposition parties argue the bill is deficient and demand significant amendments, including a full ban on gambling inducements and stronger protections for vulnerable Australians. Labor sources indicate they would prefer to maintain the status quo rather than rewrite the bill substantially. The debate has been informed by harrowing testimony from former NRL player Luke Bateman, who described being targeted by betting companies with bonus bets, travel, and illicit drugs, though his prior employment in the gambling industry was not initially disclosed. Despite this, advocates stress the importance of passing reform to prevent further gambling harm.
(Source：ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation))