Government unveils last-minute gambling reforms ahead of critical new report
Government introduces last-minute gambling reforms before a critical Senate report, facing criticism for insufficient measures to protect vulnerable individuals.Summary
The Australian government unveiled last-minute amendments to its gambling reforms in parliament just hours before a critical Senate committee report was released. The report, which included criticism from the coalition, Greens, and independent Senator David Pocock, condemned the reforms as inadequate, arguing they fail to adequately separate gambling from sports and fail to protect children. Key changes included restrictions on inducements and affiliate commissions, responding to Greens' concerns. The government also proposed an opt-out register for gambling ads, modeled after the Do Not Call register, funded by a levy on gambling companies. Critics, including the coalition, argued the reforms were delayed and insufficient, citing a 2023 report by the late Peta Murphy with over 30 recommendations that were largely ignored. The amendments are set to be debated and may pass quickly through parliament.
(Source：SBS Australia)