Swift Action To Stop Gambling Harms - Do Not Bet On It

Reform supporters, physician and crossbenchers are collaborating to promote action on gaming as a landmark report on its harms gathers dust 1000 days on.


Angry at inaction, proponents of gambling reform are launching research study about betting companies attempting to increase their interest girls to highlight the need for urgent government intervention.


Late Labor MP Peta Murphy handed down a report into gambling harms in June 2023, which advised phasing out online betting marketing, suppressing inducements and setting up a nationwide framework.


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


The federal government promotes its action on betting reform, including prohibiting credit cards, introducing brand-new taglines after ads and a self-exclusion register when it safeguards its record, however it hasn't addressed the report's major recommendations.


Former interactions minister Michelle Rowland had developed a policy that would have partially prohibited gambling ads, including through hourly caps, but this was torpedoed by the prime before it was made public.


Independent MP Kate Chaney will introduce a personal member's costs prohibiting ads for online gambling services, enacting a recommendation of Ms Murphy's report.


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


Australian Medical Association president Danielle McMullen stated gaming causes immeasurable damage to families as Australians lose $31.5 billion every year.


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


Social network promos including celebrities and influencers were increasing gambling's appeal to women, according to Deakin University research study after a qualitative panel survey of 525 Victorian ladies aged in between 18 and 40.


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


A second research study found techniques like celebrity endorsements, betting incentives and direct-to-consumer marketing were normalising gambling, making it appear more positive and increasing betting.


Survey individuals explained perk bets - in-app currency offered by gambling business to boost an account's balance - making them seem like they had a higher possibility of winning which gambling was viewed as a way to make money in the context of cost-of-living pressures.


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


"To see gambling business now targeting women in the same way big tobacco did in the past is uncomfortable and wouldn't have happened if the government had actually acted," he stated.


"There is no excuse for ongoing inactiveness. Australians extremely support a full restriction on gambling marketing and the Albanese government requires to get on with delivering it."