The Australian Government and Coalition are moving towards an agreement on amendments to federal gambling reforms, potentially clearing a path for legislation that has faced opposition over advertising restrictions and its treatment of customer inducements.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Angus Taylor held talks as Labor sought the additional parliamentary support required to advance the Interactive Gambling Amendment (Gambling Reform) Bill 2026.
The bill was introduced to the House of Representatives on 2 July and remains before the chamber. It was also referred to the Senate Environment and Communications Legislation Committee, which held public hearings on 3 and 4 August and is due to report on 17 August.
Labor's existing package would cap television wagering advertisements at three per hour between 6am and 8.30pm, while prohibiting gambling advertising during live sport.
Advertising would also be banned in sports venues and on player and official uniforms, while restrictions would apply to online advertising unless users are logged in and verified as adults.
Negotiations have increasingly focused on inducements following evidence presented to the Senate inquiry. Former NRL player Luke Bateman and gambling reform advocate Tim Costello made allegations concerning drugs, alcohol, sex workers and other benefits allegedly offered in connection with high-value gambling customers.
Sportsbet and Tabcorp rejected allegations involving their businesses and called for evidence of illegal conduct to be provided to authorities.
Deputy Opposition Leader Jane Hume said the Coalition wanted "meaningful action on those predatory inducements" while maintaining existing gambling advertising protections.
The dispute represents another stage in the Government's response to the 2023 parliamentary inquiry led by the late Labor MP Peta Murphy. That inquiry produced 31 recommendations, including a phased prohibition on online gambling advertising.
Labor instead opted for targeted advertising restrictions when it announced its federal package in April.
Albanese said he was confident legislation containing "practical amendments" could return to the House of Representatives later this week.
In July, Labor also backed an updated party platform supporting stronger gambling regulation, expanded regulatory powers and further measures addressing young people's exposure to gambling content.
The Senate committee examining the gambling reform legislation is scheduled to deliver its report on 17 August, with the Government's advertising measures intended to take effect from 1 January 2027
