Leadership and Courage in Australian Politics: A Call to Address Gambling Harm

The Legacy of John Howard’s Gun Reforms

In 1996, shortly after John Howard was elected Prime Minister of Australia, tragedy struck with the Port Arthur massacre. In the wake of this horrific event, Howard faced immense pressure from his voter base—including many who cherished their gun ownership rights. Nonetheless, he demonstrated remarkable political courage and integrity by championing comprehensive gun reform legislation. His decisive actions resulted in Australia achieving significantly lower rates of gun ownership compared to other developed nations, particularly the United States, which continues to struggle with the aftermath of mass shootings. This commitment to public safety marked a pivotal point in Australian policy, the resonance of which reverberates to this day.

The Current Crisis: Online Gambling Harm

Fast forward to the present, and we find ourselves grappling with a different but equally pressing crisis—the rising epidemic of online gambling and its devastating impact on individuals and families. As Australians face a national health crisis fueled by gambling addiction, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese appears to have sidestepped a critical opportunity to exhibit similar moral leadership. Over 16 months have passed since a parliamentary committee, which I was part of, issued a bipartisan and unanimous report titled “You win some, you lose more,” containing 31 comprehensive recommendations designed to mitigate gambling harm on a national scale.

Call for Action on Gambling Reform

Despite the report’s recommendations, there has been a conspicuous lack of response from the Albanese government, particularly from Communications Minister Michelle Rowland. This delay is perplexing, especially considering the significant evidence presented during hearings, which included harrowing testimonies from those who have suffered firsthand from gambling addiction. Many of these individuals spoke of extreme consequences: financial ruin, homelessness, and even suicidality, which have haunted families across the nation.

Lived Experiences: The Human Cost of Gambling Harm

One particularly striking story came from Anna Bardsley, who traveled to Canberra with colleagues to discuss the report’s findings. While she ultimately did not receive a meeting with the Prime Minister, she did share her insights with me. Her colleagues recounted how their lives spiraled out of control due to gambling. One had resorted to theft to fund their addiction; another shared their experiences of gambling starting at just seven years old. Such accounts demonstrate that gambling is not merely a personal issue—it is a societal one that demands urgent attention.

The Stakes of Inaction

During a recent question time, Liberal MP Keith Wolahan and I pressed Rowland regarding the government’s timeline to address the report. Unfortunately, she was unable to provide a clear response, leaving many Australians questioning the government’s commitment to combatting this crisis. In Australia, where approximately 40% of the population engages in gambling weekly, the consequences of inaction are dire. Despite the majority of Australians gambling responsibly, the online gambling landscape is rapidly evolving, with accessibility reaching unprecedented levels.

The Cultural Shift in Gambling

The emergence of online gambling has drastically transformed the once-cheerful Australian attitudes towards gambling, often referred to as “larrikinism.” Where gambling once remained confined to social events and gatherings, it now infiltrates homes via our phones. The once innocent wager among friends has morphed into an impulsive and compulsive behavior nurtured by relentless advertising and clever marketing strategies designed to exploit vulnerable individuals. As a result, children are increasingly exposed to discussions of odds rather than enjoying the wholesome experience of sporting events.

The Call for a National Regulatory Framework

The parliamentary committee recommended establishing a national regulatory framework to address gambling from a public health perspective. This approach recognizes the multifaceted nature of gambling addiction and seeks to safeguard vulnerable populations against predatory practices prevalent in the online gambling industry. It is an essential step toward protecting families, preserving the integrity of community sports, and enhancing the overall wellbeing of Australians.

A Collective Responsibility

As Australians, we are at a crossroads. The time for strong leadership is now, as we have the potential to redefine our narrative around gambling harm. Just as Howard faced the formidable challenge of gun reform with unwavering resolve, we must challenge ourselves to insist on tangible action against online gambling. Hundreds of constituents have communicated their desperation for change, and we owe it to them to act.

The parallels between the national discourse on gun control in 1996 and our current situation regarding online gambling are striking. Both issues present opportunities for political leaders—particularly Albanese and Rowland—to step up and make consequential changes that could benefit future generations of Australians. The conversation surrounding gambling reform is long overdue, and it demands immediate attention for the sake of our collective wellbeing.

In this battle for safety, health, and social integrity, we must urge our leaders to take action, turning a blind eye to none, ensuring the voice of the people leads the way to reform.