Federal Member for Lyne Alison Penfold is encouraging North Coast residents to have their say on proposed gambling advertising reforms, with legislation introduced into Federal Parliament.
Penfold has launched a community survey seeking feedback from people across the electorate on the Government’s proposed changes and the broader debate about gambling advertising.
“Many Australians enjoy a punt on the races, a bet on the footy or a flutter with friends. For most people, gambling is a form of entertainment they engage in responsibly and occasionally,” Penfold said.
“But should Australians be bombarded with gambling advertising while they’re watching sport with their families? That’s really the question at the heart of this debate.
“The fact is gambling harm is real. It can have devastating consequences for individuals, families and communities through financial hardship, relationship breakdown, mental health challenges and addiction.
“I have met with gambling reform advocates, including Tim Costello from the Alliance for Gambling Reform, to discuss the impact gambling advertising is having on Australians and what changes are needed.
“The rise of online betting and the sheer volume of gambling advertising have raised legitimate concerns about whether we’ve got the balance right. Many parents are worried about the amount of gambling advertising children are exposed to while watching sport.”
Penfold said the Interactive Gambling Amendment (Gambling Reform) Bill 2026 would ban gambling advertising during live sport broadcasts, restrict radio advertising during school drop-off and pick-up times, limit advertising frequency, prohibit gambling advertising on sporting uniforms and at sporting venues, and strengthen online protections for children.
“The Government has stopped short of adopting the recommendations of the Murphy Review, which called for a phased ban on all gambling advertising and sponsorship over three years,” Penfold said.
“Supporters of the Murphy Review argue that only a complete ban will meaningfully reduce gambling harm and better protect children from constant exposure to gambling promotion.
“Others argue that adults should retain the freedom to make their own decisions and that a complete ban could have significant impacts on sporting codes, broadcasters and industries that rely on sponsorship revenue.
“As the local MP, I want to hear directly from the people of Lyne about how far they believe these reforms should go.”
Penfold said information about the proposed reforms and the community survey would be emailed to subscribers of her e-newsletter, with the survey also available on her website under the Policy heading “Gambling Advertising Reform”.
“I will be sending information and a survey to subscribers of my e-newsletter today. For everyone else, information about the proposed reforms and the survey can be found on my website under the Policy heading ‘Gambling Advertising Reform’.
“I encourage everyone to take a few minutes to complete the survey and share their views. The feedback I receive will help inform how I approach this legislation when it comes before Parliament.”
The survey will remain open until Friday, 24 July.
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