Australia's Labor Party Commits to Expanded Gambling Regulation at National Conference

Australia's ruling Labor Party has formally endorsed a tougher line on gambling regulation during its recent national conference. Delegates voted in favor of amendments that expand the authority of gambling regulators and target the exposure of minors to online betting.

The party's updated platform calls for national regulators to report annually to parliament on enforcement actions. It also commits to exploring restrictions on embedded inducements in digital platforms that "incentivise and normalise gambling" among young Australians, as well as curbing gambling-related content promoted via social media.

These moves come alongside the federal government's earlier introduction of the Interactive Gambling Amendment (Gambling Reform) Bill 2026, which would limit gambling advertisements on television and radio — including a ban during live sports broadcasts. However, the government has stopped short of a complete advertising ban, as recommended by the late MP Peta Murphy's parliamentary inquiry.

Beyond advertising, the new party platform includes commitments to strengthen enforcement mechanisms, expand financial counselling services, and launch public education campaigns to address gambling harm. The timeline for implementing these measures will be determined by Labor's parliamentary team.

The wagering industry, through Responsible Wagering Australia (RWA), has welcomed the Senate inquiry into the proposed reforms. RWA argues that certain provisions in the bill extend beyond the government's stated policy objectives and could create practical difficulties for licensed operators.