Australia and Britain confront new gambling regulation measures

In Australia, the federal government’s gambling reform package has drawn sharp criticism as gambling losses climb. Research from the Australia Institute shows Australians lost over AUD 104 billion between July 2023 and July 2026, prompting calls for tougher action. While the legislation will limit gambling ads, ban radio spots during school pick‑up times and prohibit betting promotions on sports jerseys from January 2027, critics say it falls short of the Murphy review’s recommendations. Independent MP Andrew Wilkie warned, “The number of Australians affected is easily measured in the millions, and what does the government do? It brings out this half‑arsed set of reforms that will do very little to address gambling addiction in this country.”

In the United Kingdom, the Gambling Commission’s plan to introduce “financial risk assessments” for bettors has sparked a dispute with the racing industry and a parliamentary inquiry. The House of Commons culture, media and sport committee has asked the commission to explain the checks, which the British Horseracing Authority warns could push customers into the illegal market and reduce Treasury tax revenue. The BHA chief executive said the checks may “have the opposite effect…by driving more customers to the illegal market”.