More than 70 prominent Australians, including former prime ministers and premiers, union leaders and medical experts, have signed an open letter calling on the federal government to ban gambling advertising.
The open letter to Anthony Albanese and Peter Dutton calls for the “tsunami” of gambling ads on screens to be phased out within three years.
“We have to treat gambling and the ads just like we treated tobacco ads,” Alliance for Gambling Reform chief executive Tim Costello said.
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Former prime ministers John Howard and Malcolm Turnbull have backed the campaign.
So too have former premiers Dominic Perrottet and Jeff Kennett.
“Gambling losses are responsible for enormous harm across the community,” Howard said.
Per capita, Australians spend the most money on gambling in the world, collectively losing $25 billion a year.
Parliament resumes on Monday, with today’s calls putting further pressure on the government.
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The government still has not responded to a comprehensive review into gambling harms, that was released more than a year ago.
“We continue to consult on the final response to that inquiry,” Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister Patrick Gorman said.
Any advertising ban could put further pressure on local companies already competing with global tech giants like Netflix and Facebook.
“A ban would reduce the sector’s ability to contribute to sport, broadcast and integrity arrangements,” a spokesperson for Responsible Wagering Australia said.
Supporters of the ban suggest that broadcasters could be compensated for the loss of gambling ad revenue.
“People who are affected like broadcast media need to know there will be compensation for a very important social step forward,” Costello said.
There are many different ways to get help and information about gambling. Call the National Gambling Helpline on 1800 858 858; use online counselling; find information about help services in your state or territory; get information and support for family and friends; get information about how to talk with someone about their gambling; or contact Gamblers Anonymous.
All services are free, confidential and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
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