David Pocock Delivers Furious Senate Speech Saying Government Has Failed on Gambling Advertising
Independent senator marks 1000 days since landmark report called for ad ban
Pocock told the Senate that numerous young men had opened up to him about the losses and shame they feel, and how difficult it is to recover when they are being "bombarded with ads" at every turn.
"A thousand days ago you were given the blueprint, a multipartisan-backed report saying this is what we need to do," Pocock said, adding that the government had squandered the opportunity to act decisively.
The Murphy report, delivered in June 2023, recommended a phased ban on gambling advertising. While the government initially signalled support, implementation has been repeatedly delayed amid intense lobbying from the gambling and broadcasting industries.
Gambling harm advocates say the delay has cost lives and livelihoods, with young Australians particularly vulnerable to the constant exposure to betting promotions during sport broadcasts.
Analysis
Why This Matters
Australia has among the highest per-capita gambling losses in the world. The political failure to act on a bipartisan recommendation highlights the power of the gambling lobby.
Background
The Murphy report was a watershed moment for gambling reform. Peta Murphy, who championed the inquiry, passed away in December 2023, making the inaction all the more poignant.
Key Perspectives
Pocock and crossbenchers argue the delay is unconscionable. The gambling industry says a ban would hurt sports funding. Health experts point to rising rates of problem gambling among young men.
What to Watch
Whether the speech generates enough political pressure to force action before the next federal election.