Australia Passes Most Significant Gambling Reforms in History

The Albanese Government passed the Interactive Gambling Amendment (Gambling Reform) Bill 2026, introducing a comprehensive package of laws to protect citizens from online gambling harms. The legislation restricts wagering advertising by banning it in sports venues, on uniforms, and during live sporting event coverage from 15 minutes before to 5 minutes after the event. Television advertisements are now limited to three per hour between 5 a.m. and 8:30 p.m., and the use of celebrities, athletes, or influencers for promotion is prohibited.

Additional measures include the ban of online keno pocket pokies and foreign-matched lotteries, as well as the prohibition of radio ads during school transit times. The laws strengthen the BetStop National Self Exclusion Register and establish a new Wagering Advertising Opt-out Register. To enforce these rules, the Australian Communications and Media Authority and banks now have increased powers to block illegal gambling operators. The government also passed two cost-recovery levy bills to ensure gambling companies fund these initiatives.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese defended the reforms as a balanced approach that protects the vulnerable while maintaining the right to gamble. However, former Liberal MP Jenny Ware condemned the legislation, arguing it falls short of previous inquiry recommendations for a full advertising ban and a national regulator. While the Coalition voted with the government to pass the bill, industry sources expressed concern over the funding requirements for the new opt-out register.