Australia Passes New Gambling Reform and Advertising Laws

The Australian federal parliament has advanced a sweeping legislative package as the House of Representatives passed gambling reform measures while the Senate approved changes to the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

New restrictions clear House after major party negotiations

The gambling reform legislation secures new restrictions on advertising following negotiations between major parties. According to The Guardian, the changes arrive three years after the late Peta Murphy called for comprehensive gambling reform through a parliamentary inquiry.

Advocates and family slam compromise as falling short

Internal friction sparks floor-crossing threat in Canberra

Parallel to the gambling debate, parliamentary business saw a Liberal senator prepare to cross the floor on the gambling ad bill, highlighting internal friction over the scope of the reforms.

Ministers defend balanced approach to national wagering culture

According to coverage from The Canberra Times, government ministers defended the package by emphasizing that Australians will “still have a punt,” framing the restrictions as a balanced approach rather than a total prohibition on wagering culture.

Senate clears NDIS bills amid tense parliamentary sitting

The legislative agenda also cleared key social policy hurdles as the Senate formally passed NDIS reform bills. Alongside the legislative votes, MPs in federal parliament expressed being deeply disturbed by allegations concerning the Swans and Scots, adding to a tense sitting week in Canberra. Proceedings in the House also featured formal tributes paid by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to veteran journalist Tony Wright.