The gambling industry has given federal politicians about 150 free tickets to sporting events, shows and hospitality since the 2019 election, raising concerns from transparency advocates about the potential for perceived conflicts of interest.
The majority of gifts – according to analysis of parliament’s interest registers by transparency organisation Open Politics – have been provided by Tabcorp. Sportsbet, Star Entertainment, Australian Hotels Association and ClubsNSW have also given gifts to politicians.
There is no suggestion these gifts have influenced decision making in government or opposition, but transparency advocates have raised concerns about perceived conflicts of interest.
The communications minister, Michelle Rowland, who was criticised for accepting donations from Sportsbet before the 2022 federal election, has accepted 10 free tickets from Tabcorp for herself and others since coming to office.
