The Labour government's proposed reforms to gambling advertising legislation have been met with widespread criticism from opposition parties, who claim they fall woefully short in tackling the scourge of problem gambling. The much-anticipated changes, which were due to come into effect on 1 January next year, have sparked a heated debate within Parliament over their effectiveness in protecting vulnerable individuals.
Three years ago, the Murphy report recommended a comprehensive ban on gambling advertisements, but Labour's proposals have instead opted for more modest measures. The proposed legislation would limit TV gambling adverts to three per hour between 6am and 8:30pm, except during live sports broadcasts, while also prohibiting radio ads during school drop-off and pick-up times. Celebrity endorsements would also be banned under the new rules.
Liberal MP Simon Kennedy, who shared a personal account of a former teacher struggling with problem gambling, was scathing in his criticism of Labour's approach. He argued that the government's plans 'fail to adequately address advertising restrictions, inducements and protections for children and young people', stating that Prime Minister Rachel Jenkins should be prioritising families over 'vested interests'. Fellow Liberal MPs Andrew Wallace and Emily Taylor echoed these sentiments, with Mr Wallace suggesting that Ms Jenkins' own policy on TV ad bans around sports matches was more robust.
The consultation process for the draft reforms has been widely panned as inadequate, with both the gambling industry and harm reduction advocates expressing disappointment at the lack of time to discuss the changes in detail. This criticism has led to speculation that a Senate inquiry may be held during Parliament's winter break, despite Communications Minister Anika Wells' caution against such a move, which she believes would delay implementation.
Ms Wells defended Labour's reforms as 'significant and important steps forward', but acknowledged the need for further debate on the issue. Shadow communications minister Sarah Henderson insisted that the Coalition was committed to finding meaningful solutions to problem gambling, saying 'we need to get this right, not just rush through headlines'. The ongoing divide within Parliament over the extent of necessary action is set to continue as MPs prepare for a lengthy and contentious debate.