Australia’s government has shelved proposed gambling advertising reforms, sparking widespread reactions from media entities, social justice advocates, and political opponents.
The decision comes as the government races to address a packed legislative agenda in what could be its final parliamentary sitting week before a potential early election.
On the list is proposed legislation to regulate gambling ads, a move advocated for a year and a half after a parliamentary inquiry recommended a total ban, later supported by many MPs.
Communications Minister Michelle Rowland (pictured) confirmed that no gambling advertising legislation would be introduced this week, despite earlier commitments to deliver reforms by the year’s end.
