Media release
For immediate release 18 August 2026
Australians should not have to opt out of gambling ads
Wesley Mission backs stronger action on inducements but says an opt-in model and a pathway to a comprehensive gambling advertising ban are needed.
New restrictions on gambling inducements are a significant move to protect Australians from gambling harm but Wesley Mission says the Government must go further and tackle the relentless advertising that continues to normalise gambling.
Wesley Mission CEO, Rev Stu Cameron, says the reforms recognise stronger protections are needed and provide momentum for the broader changes recommended by the landmark Murphy Report.
“Restricting inducements matters because gambling companies should not be able to use incentives designed to keep people gambling more often and for longer.
“We also need to stop normalising gambling as part of watching sport and growing up in Australia. Gambling advertising has become almost impossible to avoid.”
While Wesley Mission supports the creation of a single national register it says Australians should be opted out by default rather than required to act themselves.
“Australians should not have to take action to avoid gambling advertising. Protection from harm should be the default, not something people have to sign up for.”
Wesley Mission continues to advocate for all 31 recommendations of the Murphy Report, including a transition to a comprehensive ban on online gambling advertising.
“These reforms move Australia in the right direction but they cannot be the end point. The end point must be a comprehensive ban on gambling advertising,” says Rev Cameron.
ENDS
Wesley Mission CEO, Rev Stu Cameron, is available for interview
Media contact: Anne Holt 0418 628 342 (preferred) or [email protected]
