This Gambling Awareness Week highlights a growing concern across Australia—the pervasive harm caused by gambling. In the Frankston and Mornington Peninsula areas, the issue holds personal significance as the community reflects on the legacy of the late Dunkley MP, Peta Murphy, a tireless advocate for gambling reform.
Murphy, who passed away in December after a battle with cancer, spearheaded a landmark inquiry that recommended bold measures to reduce gambling harm, including a three-phase plan to ban sports betting advertisements. The report, delivered in July 2023, outlined 31 recommendations addressing the social and financial toll of gambling, estimated to cost Australians $25 billion annually.
Political Inaction Raises Questions
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has yet to commit to Murphy’s recommendations, despite pressure from advocates like Tim Costello, one of Australia’s most prominent anti-gambling campaigners. Governments typically respond to parliamentary inquiries within six months, but the Albanese government has delayed its response, citing the need to avoid “unintended consequences.”
While acknowledging Murphy’s contributions as “critical,” Albanese’s approach has focused on incremental measures, such as a self-exclusion register and monthly betting activity statements. These steps fall short of the comprehensive reforms many believe are necessary.
“Murphy’s recommendations are among the most socially significant and courageous in recent political history,” said Costello, a Dunkley resident. “It would have been fitting to honour her work with decisive action, especially during the Dunkley byelection.”
Community Support for Reform
Murphy’s call for a blanket ban on gambling ads was a passionate plea to protect vulnerable individuals, especially children, from the pervasive influence of betting promotions. “She was courageous and morally clear on protecting children from grooming by sports betting ads,” Costello noted, adding that most Australians, including those in Dunkley, would support such measures.
Goldstein MP Zoe Daniel echoed this sentiment, questioning the government’s commitment during parliamentary discussions. “Will the government honour her call?” she asked Albanese, urging a concrete response to Murphy’s push for reform.
A Fight for Change
As the community reflects on Murphy’s vision, anti-gambling advocates and her successor, Jody Beleya, remain committed to pushing for change. However, resistance from sporting bodies, TV companies, and the gambling industry underscores the challenges ahead.
For now, the Albanese government has emphasised its “comprehensive approach” to tackling gambling harm. But for advocates like Costello and Murphy’s widower, Rod Glover, the lack of decisive action threatens to dilute the momentum built by Murphy’s tireless advocacy.
Seeking Support
This Gambling Awareness Week is a time to reflect on the urgent need for reform and to provide support to those affected. If gambling is impacting you or someone you know, help is available at 1800 858 858 or through Gambling Help Online.
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