Labor faces gambling industry backlash over betting inducement controls as Senate deal looms

Australia's Labor government is navigating a political minefield as it seeks to implement new regulations on the gambling industry. Proposed legislation aims to ban financial inducements for betting, a move that has drawn fierce opposition from powerful gambling giants.

Despite reports that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese might demand the bill pass in its entirety or be scrapped, Communications Minister Anika Wells has signaled a willingness to negotiate. This stance comes as the government faces pressure from both the Coalition and the Greens, who are pushing for stricter controls on inducements.

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Labor will face strong opposition from gambling giants if it accedes to Coalition and Greens demands for a tough new ban on financial inducements for betting, part of closely watched Senate dealmaking expected within days.

The Senate is expected to finalize a deal on the legislation within days. The outcome could significantly impact how online sports betting is advertised and promoted in Australia, with gambling companies likely to lobby intensely to soften the proposed measures.

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Despite reports on Thursday that the prime minister, Anthony Albanese, could insist Labor’s bill to limit advertising for online sports betting be passed in full or be withdrawn, the communications minister, Anika Wells, insisted she was prepared to negotiate.