Labor planning ban on online gambling ads with TV phase out, Sky News reports

The Albanese government is believed to be planning to ban gambling ads canned from television screens in as little as two years.

Federal cabinet is poised to consider gambling advertising reforms that would almost immediately ban online ads, while giving broadcasters two years to see out their contracts with bookmakers.

According to Sky News, a blanket ban is not in the plan, despite it being recommended by a parliamentary committee headed by the late Labor MP Peta Murphy.

The bans under the reforms, spearheaded by Communications Minister Michelle Rowland, will target three areas of concerns: saturation of gambling ads, exposure of children to gambling ads and gambling promotion during sporting matches.

Communications Minister Michelle Rowland is spearheading the reforms to gambling advertising. Picture: NewsWire / Martin Ollman

The late Labor MP Peta Murphy led the committee into gambling advertising. Picture: NewsWire / Gary Ramage

Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth told Sky News’ on Sunday that the government was not considering a national online gambling regulator.

“At this point that is not in the discussions with states and territories,” Ms Rishworth said.

“What is in the discussion with states and territories is around how we better co-ordinate and move forward a unified effort when it comes to online gaming.”

More to come

Originally published as Labor planning ban on online gambling ads with TV phase out, Sky News reports