Reform advocates, medical professionals and crossbenchers are teaming up to push for action on gambling as a landmark report on its harms gathers dust 1000 days on. Source: Canberra Times.
Angry at inaction, proponents of gambling reform are releasing research about gambling companies trying to increase their appeal to young women to highlight the need for urgent government intervention.
Late Labor MP Peta Murphy handed down a report into gambling harms in June 2023, which recommended phasing out online gambling advertising, curbing inducements and setting up a national framework.
None of the 31 recommendations has been responded to 1000 days later.
The Albanese Government touts its action on gambling reform, including banning credit cards, introducing new taglines after ads and a self-exclusion register when it defends its record, but it hasn’t addressed the report’s major recommendations.
Independent MP Kate Chaney will introduce a private member’s bill banning ads for online gambling services, enacting a recommendation of Ms Murphy’s report.
The ban would be phased in over three years and apply to free-to-air TV, social media, streaming services and around sporting fields.
Australian Medical Association president Danielle McMullen said gambling causes immeasurable harm 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 recognise that ongoing industry pressure is harming Australians,” Dr McMullen said.
Social media promotions featuring celebrities and influencers were increasing gambling’s appeal to women, according to Deakin University research after a qualitative panel survey of 525 Victorian women aged between 18 and 40.
Using female celebrities and influencers and content linked to women’s interests made gambling feel more socially acceptable and relatable, according to the research.
A second study found strategies like celebrity endorsements, gambling inducements and direct-to-consumer marketing were normalising gambling, making it appear more positive and increasing wagering.
Independent senator David Pocock said the Government’s response was shameful.
“To see gambling companies now targeting women in the same way big tobacco did back in the day is troubling and wouldn’t have happened if the Government had acted,” he said.
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Swift action to stop gambling harms – don’t bet on it (By Dominic Giannini, Canberra Times)
