It’s been 1,000 days since the Peta Murphy report recommended action on online gambling advertising and millions of Australians are still being exposed to advertising from predatory gambling companies, with disastrous impacts on public health.
The Australian Medical Association is calling on the federal government to take immediate action and implement the recommendations from the Murphy report.
AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen said online gambling was causing immeasurable harm to Australian families.
‘The committee led by Peta Murphy was crystal clear — partial bans do not work, and it is time to recognise that ongoing industry pressure is harming Australians,’ Dr McMullen said.
‘While families struggle with cost-of-living pressures, gambling losses now amount to more than $1500 for every adult, draining budgets faster than utilities or housing.’
Losses out of control
Australians lose $31.5 billion annually to gambling — the highest per capita losses in the world. Gambling companies have been emboldened by inaction, with TabCorp ramping up inducements as they exploit the regulatory vacuum.
Dr McMullen said Peta Murphy’s report had exposed how these companies use this lack of oversight to systematically target vulnerable audiences, particularly children, through sports advertising.
‘The inquiry was unambiguous – online gambling companies deliberately exploit Australia’s love of sport to normalise gambling as harmless fun,’ she said.
‘Australia’s sporting codes and broadcasters have been in lockstep with gambling industry partners to oppose restrictions.’
Disastrous health impacts
The AMA has championed reform since 2013, calling for an independent regulator and comprehensive advertising bans. Gambling harm causes severe mental health disorders, substance abuse, family breakdown and financial devastation.
The AMA demands an immediate response to all 31 recommendations, including total advertising bans, an independent regulator, and child protection.
‘One thousand days of inaction while online gambling companies flood sports broadcasts with predatory advertising is unacceptable,’ Dr McMullen said.
‘Every day of delay means more Australians fall victim to an industry that profits from harm and despair.’
You can read the AMA’s submission to the Parliamentary inquiry here.
The inquiry’s report, ‘You win some, you lose more’ is available here.
