Australian reformists say election presents “best chance in years” for change

Alliance for Gambling Reform CEO Martin Thomas has called Australia’s upcoming federal election the country’s “best chance in years to achieve real reform” for the gambling sector. 

The election, called by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese back in March, is set to take place on 3 May.  

In a donation plea to potential backers, Thomas highlighted the election as an opportunity to reintroduce the Murphy Report back into the federal conversation.  

The report, compiled by late Labor MP Peta Murphy, included 31 recommendations to reduce the levels of gambling-related harm experienced in the country.  

Among the recommendations was blanket ban on gambling advertising in Australia, which would be phased in over a three-year period.  

Thomas said: “The Murphy Report laid out a clear plan – including a full ban on gambling ads and 30 other recommendations that would dramatically reduce gambling harm. 

“But nearly two years after the report was delivered, the major parties have failed to act. And so far, this crisis has been missing from the federal election conversation.

“At the same time, public concern is growing – and support for reform from the Greens, Teals and other independents is stronger than ever. 

“This is a critical moment. With a larger crossbench expected, we will have the best chance in years to achieve real reform. But only if we raise our voices – now.” 

Rather than implement Murphy’s recommendation for a full ban on gambling ads, the Albanese government favoured a cap system which would limit ads to two per hour on each channel until 10pm.  

The cap system would also include a total ban on gambling ads one hour before and after all live sports broadcasts. 

Alliance for Gambling Reform had previously given its backing to any electoral candidates willing to publicly support Murphy’s gambling ad ban recommendation. 

The group’s donation plea also cited research from think tank The Australia Institute, which claimed teenagers under the age of 18 are spending more than A$18m (£8.4m) on gambling every year.  

The research also alleged that around 600,000 under 18s are placing bets every year, in what Alliance for Gambling Reform described as a “teenage gambling crisis”.  

Thomas told voters that campaign donations would help to “run a campaign that reaches voters in key electorates”, help to keep pressure on candidates to commit to a gambling ad ban as well as giving “a voice to children and families harmed by gambling”.  

He continued: “We don’t have millions to spend like the gambling industry does. Every donation goes straight into advocacy, awareness and pushing for change. 

“Every dollar helps expose the harm gambling companies are doing to our kids – and hold our leaders accountable. If you’ve never donated before, now’s the time.” 

Australia’s Liberal-National Coalition Party included a ban on gambling adverts during live sports broadcasts as part of its election manifesto priorities. 

The Green Party has committed to establishing a federal regulator as part of its election pledge.