Interactive Gambling Amendment (Stop the Gambling Ads) Bill 2026; Second Reading

Summary

The government is banning advertisements for online gambling services across TV, radio, digital platforms, and sports stadiums to reduce gambling-related harm. It amends the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 by phasing in these restrictions over three years, starting with lighter rules and ending in a near-total ban with only a few exceptions. The change matters because research shows that heavy exposure to gambling ads normalizes betting, gets more people gambling (especially children and vulnerable people), and increases the risk of addiction and financial damage.

What happens at this stage

The main debate on whether the chamber supports the broad purpose of the bill. Members speak to its overall merits and concerns rather than the fine print. The government outlines its policy intentions; the opposition and crossbench put their case. This is the stage that determines whether the bill proceeds at all.

Next: Consideration in Detail (House) or Committee of the Whole (Senate), where the bill is examined clause by clause