Labor on betting ads

The Australian government faces backlash from anti-gambling advocates and independent politicians for reportedly planning to limit rather than ban gambling advertisements on television. While a proposal is expected to cap gambling ads to two per hour until 10pm and ban them around live sports, critics argue this falls short of the comprehensive ban recommended by a bipartisan inquiry led by the late Labor MP Peta Murphy. Tim Costello from the Alliance for Gambling Reform refused to sign an NDA to attend a government briefing, highlighting a lack of transparency in the consultation process. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been accused of breaking election promises and appeasing the gambling industry, with independent MPs labeling the proposal a 'total cop-out.' Public health experts have voiced concerns that the proposed reforms do not align with evidence-based recommendations for protecting communities from gambling harm. An official announcement from the government is anticipated soon, but the effectiveness of these measures remains in question.