Albanese Announces Gambling Ad Restrictions for Children

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced a package of gambling reforms on Thursday aimed at reducing advertising exposure, particularly for children, during a speech at the National Press Club in Canberra. The measures, set to take effect from January 1, 2027, include restrictions on television, radio, and online promotions, as well as bans on branding in sports settings, in response to growing concerns over gambling harm in Australia.

The reforms cap gambling advertisements on television at three per hour between 6 a.m. and 8:30 p.m., with a complete ban during live sports broadcasts within those hours. Radio stations will be prohibited from airing such ads during school drop-off and pickup times. Online, advertisements will only appear for users who are logged in and verified to be over 18, and platforms must provide an opt-out option for gambling-specific content. Celebrities and athletes will no longer be allowed to feature in promotions, and gambling branding will be banned on players' and officials' uniforms, as well as in sports venues during games.

Albanese described the changes as "the most significant reform on gambling that has ever been implemented," emphasizing a...