The Albanese government is facing sharp criticism over its apparent retreat from plans to ban online gambling advertising on social media, a shift seen by many as a concession to powerful wagering companies. Initially, the government had committed to stronger restrictions, including a phased total ban on gambling ads, as recommended by the bipartisan parliamentary inquiry chaired by the late Labor MP Peta Murphy. However, Communications Minister Anika Wells now intends to focus instead on cracking down on illegal offshore gambling sites and influencers who promote them.
This revised approach has alarmed reform advocates and some MPs, who argue it sidesteps the broader issue of gambling’s pervasive influence, particularly on young Australians. The government’s newly announced plan to restrict social media access for users under 16 is being cited as a substitute protective measure. While the measure theoretically shields children from exposure to online gambling ads, critics argue it does little to protect those aged 16–19, a demographic particularly vulnerable to gambling promotion.
Former Tabcorp CEO Elmer Funke Kupper acknowledged the government’s move on age limits but stressed that the broader rationale for a total ban—similar to tobacco advertising restrictions—remains. “Research shows there is a jump in gambling and advertising awareness from 16 to 19-year-olds. And they will keep consuming social media as before. This says a broader social media ban makes sense,” he said. He also warned that as children move away from social media, their exposure to mainstream media ads will likely increase, necessitating vigilance across all platforms.
Independent MP Kate Chaney, a member of the Murphy-led inquiry, condemned the government’s pivot as “a gift to the gambling lobby and a betrayal of families who are already paying the price”. She warned that if the Prime Minister bows to industry pressure, it would define his legacy. Her stance highlights growing frustration among crossbench and Greens MPs who believe the government has watered down a key public health reform.
Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young similarly denounced the government's revised strategy, urging a complete ban on gambling advertising. Meanwhile, Responsible Wagering Australia, which represents major betting firms including Sportsbet and bet365, released data showing Australia’s betting and gaming market has more than doubled in size since 2019, reaching $10.9 billion. Notably, $3.9 billion of this is attributed to illegal operators—a figure being used to justify the government's change in focus.
Despite the mounting criticism, the government appears intent on prioritising the targeting of illegal offshore sites over a more comprehensive ban. Critics argue this shift may protect industry revenue streams at the expense of public health, particularly the well-being of younger Australians.