Interactive Gambling Amendment (Stop the Gambling Ads) Bill 2026
✦ Plain-English Summary
Interactive Gambling Amendment (Stop the Gambling Ads) Bill 2026
What it does
This bill bans advertising for online wagering services (like betting sites) in Australia. It updates the existing Interactive Gambling Act to add new rules preventing licensed betting companies from promoting their services through traditional media like TV, radio, and other channels.
Why it matters
Gambling ads are everywhere — on sports broadcasts, social media, and during prime time TV — and they're particularly effective at reaching young people. This bill aims to reduce how much Australians are exposed to betting promotions, which could help cut down on problem gambling and protect vulnerable groups.
Key details
- Starts immediately: The law kicks in the day after it receives Royal Assent (the Governor-General's approval), though there's a "phased implementation" period mentioned — likely giving the industry time to comply
- Who it affects: Licensed online betting companies can no longer advertise; unlicensed ones already couldn't advertise
- Scope: The bill defines "broadcast" to cover TV, radio, cable, satellite and fibre, but specifically excludes internet streaming services (for now)
Audit History
Introduced
30 Mar 2026
Last updated on APH
10 Apr 2026
Last checked by Crossbench
4 days ago
Next review
in 3 days
Full text indexed
4 days ago