Canberra: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Wednesday unveiled long-awaited reforms to gambling advertising in Australia, addressing a landmark recommendation made more than three years ago that called for strict limits on the promotion of online betting.
Speaking at the National Press Club, Albanese outlined the government’s plans ahead of next month’s federal budget, with gambling ad reform emerging as a key policy priority. The announcement comes after years of mounting pressure from health advocates, sports bodies, and families affected by problem gambling.
The proposed reforms are expected to significantly restrict the volume and timing of gambling advertisements, particularly during live sports broadcasts โ€” a major concern raised in the landmark 2023 Murphy Report, which detailed the widespread harm caused by aggressive online gambling marketing in Australia.
PM Urges Calm Amid Opposition Criticism
The address follows a national televised speech by the Prime Minister on Tuesday night, in which he urged Australians to “go about your business and your life as normal” but recommended switching to public transport where possible.
The opposition swiftly criticised the address, calling it lacking in substance and clarity, and accused the government of failing to provide concrete guidance to the public.
Budget Priorities Also on the Agenda
Beyond gambling reform, the Prime Minister used the National Press Club platform to signal the government’s broader economic direction ahead of the federal budget, expected next month. Cost of living relief, housing affordability, and energy transition are expected to be central themes.