Australian Government Releases Response to Online Gambling Harms Report

The Murphy report, a landmark inquiry into the harms of online gambling, was released in Australia and has not received a government response for over 1,000 days until last week. This delay came amid growing pressure from advocates, experts, the crossbench, and members within the prime minister's own party.

Anthony Albanese, the Australian Prime Minister, announced the government's response, which includes some measures from the report's 31 recommendations. The Guardian reported that the response does not fully implement the report's suggestions, such as a complete ban on gambling advertising.

The Murphy report recommended a full ban on gambling advertising, the establishment of a national gambling regulator, and a prohibition on inducements like free bets. Australia has the highest per capita gambling losses in the world, with 75 percent of young people viewing gambling as a normal part of enjoying sports.

Evidence from public health experts, including Professor Samantha Thomas at Deakin University, and the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), indicates that partial bans on gambling ads have not been effective in the past.

Previous attempts by the Coalition government to limit gambling ads, such as restricting broadcast times, resulted in more ads appearing on television and radio, including in slots viewed by children. The Guardian reported a comparison by Reverend Tim Costello, who noted that society would not tolerate similar limits on cigarette ads for children.

m. during live broadcasts. m. would still expose viewers to ads for about half the game.

Young people are particularly affected by the normalization of gambling, as highlighted by personal accounts shared with crossbench senator David Pocock. The Guardian reported stories from individuals, such as young people experiencing shame and addiction due to pervasive ads and inducements on betting apps.

The Murphy report emphasized banning inducements without delay, as they normalize gambling as a risk-free activity among teenagers and young adults.

The government's response is weaker than a package proposed by former communications minister Michelle Rowland two years ago, which Albanese reportedly intervened to stop. This announcement occurred the day after parliament adjourned, following addresses by world leaders, and just before the Easter long weekend amid other national concerns like fuel and cost-of-living issues.

With the government holding a significant majority in the House of Representatives and a crossbench in the Senate advocating for stronger action, future developments may depend on ongoing pressure from stakeholders. The Guardian reported that gambling companies might respond to these changes, potentially exploiting any loopholes.