TLDR Australia will ban online keno and restrict gambling ads during live sport from January 2027 Wagering ads will be banned from sports venues, uniforms, and during school drop-off and pick-up times on radio Online platforms must verify users are signed in, over 18, and given an opt-out before showing gambling ads The ACMA will get stronger powers to block illegal gambling sites, with the black market projected to hit A$5 billion by 2029 Critics including senators and independent MPs have called the reforms “cowardly,” “terrible,” and “pathetic”
The Australian government has unveiled a package of gambling reforms set to take effect from January 2027. The changes come as the official response to the parliamentary inquiry led by the late Peta Murphy, who died in 2023.
The inquiry, known as the Murphy’s Law inquiry, drew on 161 submissions, 26 exhibits, and 13 public hearings. Its report was titled “You win some, you lose more.”
The reforms will be introduced through amendments to the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. They cover advertising, online lottery products, enforcement, and support services.
Gambling Ads Face Strict New Limits
One of the biggest changes targets wagering advertising during live sport. Ads will be banned between 6:00 am and 8:30 pm, including five minutes before and after play.
Gambling ads will also be removed from sports venues and uniforms. Current sponsorship contracts will be allowed to expire before the ban kicks in.
Broadcast television will be capped at three gambling ads per hour during the restricted window. Radio stations will not be allowed to run wagering ads during school drop-off and pick-up times.
Online platforms will need to adopt what the government calls “triple lock” protections. Users must be signed in, verified as over 18, and given the choice to opt out before seeing