The Federal Parliament delivered a rare display of bipartisan co-operation last week. The government and opposition successfully negotiated the passage of three significant pieces of legislation. This united front secured reforms to gambling advertising, the National Disability Insurance Scheme and national security laws.

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While the Greens and some crossbenchers contested all three bills, the major parties demonstrated a willingness to compromise to pass the bills through the Senate.

The Interactive Gambling Amendment Bill represents a major shift in advertising regulations. The original legislation faced criticism from anti-gambling advocates, while the Coalition demanded stricter protections. To secure support, the government agreed to significant amendments. These include establishing the AdStop register, allowing Australians to opt out of online gambling advertisements. The laws ban predatory inducements and prohibit wagering companies from paying staff commissions linked to customer losses.

The legislation explicitly bans gambling advertisements during children's programming and extends the blackout period before live sports broadcasts. Although some argue these reforms fall short, the new laws provide crucial safeguards.

Parliament also passed the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment Bill to ensure the scheme's long-term sustainability. The legislation introduces a revised framework for participant planning and ties eligibility........

© Canberra Times