Swift Action To Stop Gambling Harms - Don't Bank On It

Reform advocates, medical specialists and crossbenchers are collaborating to promote action on gambling as a landmark report on its harms gathers dust 1000 days on.


Angry at inactiveness, advocates of betting reform are launching research about gambling companies trying to increase their appeal to girls to highlight the need for immediate federal government intervention.


Late Labor MP Peta Murphy handed down a report into gambling harms in June 2023, which advised phasing out online gambling marketing, suppressing temptations and establishing a national structure.


None of the 31 recommendations has been reacted to 1000 days later on.


The federal government promotes its action on gambling reform, consisting of prohibiting charge card, introducing new taglines after ads and a self-exclusion register when it safeguards its record, however it hasn't resolved the report's significant recommendations.


Former communications minister Michelle Rowland had actually worked up a policy that would have partly prohibited betting ads, consisting of through hourly caps, but this was torpedoed by the prime minister's intervention before it was revealed.


Independent MP Kate Chaney will present a private member's bill banning ads for online gaming services, enacting a recommendation of Ms Murphy's report.


The restriction would be phased in over 3 years and use to free-to-air TV, social networks, streaming services and around sporting fields.


Australian Medical Association president Danielle McMullen said gambling causes immeasurable damage to families as Australians lose $31.5 billion annually.


"The committee led by Peta Murphy was crystal clear - partial bans do not work, and it is time to acknowledge that continuous industry pressure is damaging Australians," Dr McMullen said.


Social media celebs and influencers were increasing gaming's interest females, according to Deakin University research study after a qualitative panel study of 525 Victorian women aged in between 18 and 40.


Using female stars and influencers and content linked to females's interests made betting feel more socially acceptable and relatable, according to the research study.


A second study discovered techniques like star endorsements, betting inducements and direct-to-consumer marketing were normalising gambling, making it appear more positive and increasing wagering.


Survey individuals described bonus bets - in-app currency provided by betting companies to increase an account's balance - making them feel like they had a greater possibility of winning which gaming was seen as a way to earn money in the context of cost-of-living pressures.


Independent senator David Pocock said the federal government's response was shameful.


"To see betting business now targeting females in the exact same way big tobacco did in the past is troubling and wouldn't have taken place if the federal government had actually acted," he said.


"There is no excuse for continuous inaction. Australians extremely support a complete ban on betting marketing and the Albanese federal government requires to proceed with providing it."