During internal discussions within the Labor Party, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese warned that any mistakes in implementing gambling advertisement restrictions could lead to "unforeseen consequences" nationwide.
Proposed restrictions on gambling advertisements:
The situation disclosed to a group of MPs recently revealed the government's plan to impose new restrictions on gambling advertisements. According to party sources, the proposal suggests limiting gambling advertisements to two per channel per hour until 10 PM, and completely banning them during children's programs or around live sports events. However, this measure does not reach a complete ban, and some politicians and former prime ministers, including John Howard and Malcolm Turnbull, supported by the late Labor MP Peta Murphy, advocate for a total ban on gambling ads.
Prime Minister Albanese emphasized the importance of protecting children from gambling influences, stating during "Question Time" that exposing children to gambling is "unacceptable." However, he stressed that the government must act cautiously to avoid adversely affecting other sectors. According to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), Albanese commented: "The Minister for Communications and Social Services is handling the gambling harm issue in a way that aims to avoid unforeseen consequences," highlighting the complexity of the issue.
MPs are most concerned that this could financially impact regional media companies like WIN and Prime, which operate on thin profits and have recently closed some offices. As the election approaches, the Australian government remains cautious about any decisions that might adversely affect these media institutions.
Voices against a complete ban:
Prominent former MP Bill Shorten reserved his stance on a complete ban during ABC's Q+A program, noting the tough situation commercial media companies face under the digital onslaught from giants like Facebook. According to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), he pointed out: "Some might say, 'Give up on free media,' but it is currently facing a severe situation." He believes that a total ban on gambling ads could exacerbate this issue and suggests focusing on curbing its penetration into the digital market.
The cabinet is expected to further discuss the proposed reform plan and bring it up again at next week's party meeting. Meanwhile, lobbying in Canberra is intensifying, with figures like Tim Costello from the Gambling Reform Alliance advocating for stricter measures.
Even if the government reaches internal consensus, it still needs sufficient parliamentary support to enact any new legislation. For instance, the Greens are pushing to honor Murphy's legacy by advocating for more comprehensive restrictions and plan to initiate a vote in the Senate soon.
Given these discussions, the government seems prepared to abandon plans for a complete ban on TV and radio ads but may impose stricter controls on digital advertising to protect young viewers and maintain the integrity of sports viewing.
