Watered-down gambling ad reforms would leave Australians exposed

Financial Counselling Australia (FCA) is deeply concerned by reports the Albanese Government is preparing to abandon a total ban on online gambling advertising.

FCA CEO, Dr Domenique Meyrick, said it was disappointing to see the voices of people harmed by gambling overshadowed by industry pressure.

“Every day, financial counsellors speak with people whose lives have been upended by gambling, including First Nations people and young people,” Dr Meyrick said.

“A watered-down response won’t fix the problem. We need meaningful reform, not half-measures.”

FCA welcomed reports of moves to crack down on illegal offshore gambling sites, including action against influencers promoting them, but emphasised this must complement, not replace, strong restrictions on advertising from legal bookmakers.

“Illegal operators should absolutely be stopped but that cannot be used as an excuse to let the big players keep saturating Australians’ screens with ads,” Dr Meyrick said.

“The bipartisan Peta Murphy report was clear: a total ban on gambling advertising is the most effective way to reduce harm. That recommendation should not be ignored.”

“Relying on under-16 social media restrictions is not a substitute for proper reform. Australians deserve a comprehensive, public-health-focused approach that puts people first.”

Media contact: Maura Angle [email protected] or call 0418 334 121.