Stark testimony highlights weakness of government’s gambling reforms

August 4, 2026 — 4:19pm

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Allegations that betting companies routinely use drugs, escorts and bonus bets to woo gambling addicts are an embarrassing counterpoint to the Albanese government’s dogged refusal to outlaw inducements in its tepid attempt at gambling law reform.

The government is refusing to bend despite the landmark report by the parliamentary committee headed by late Labor MHR Peta Murphy in 2023 that recommended full prohibition of betting inducements, a gambling advertising blackout and a national regulator.

Instead, Labor’s reforms will include fewer gambling ads across various media, including none during television broadcasts, a ban on “pocket pokies” and improved financial counselling.

The latest allegations came to light when Luke Bateman, a........

© The Sydney Morning Herald