Pocock Accuses Gambling Lobby of Discrediting Ex-NRL Player's Testimony

Independent ACT Senator David Pocock has leveled accusations against the gambling lobby, alleging it is actively trying to discredit the testimony of a former National Rugby League (NRL) player. The player, Luke Bateman, provided evidence to a Senate inquiry examining the Labor government's proposed legislation to curb gambling advertising.

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I think most people would probably hear that and say, well, clearly this guy was one an addict, lost everything he'd earned during a professional rugby league career, then worked in the industry for six months. He probably knows what he's talking about.

Pocock defended Bateman, whose testimony included an allegation that a gambling company offered him drugs. The senator argued that Bateman's past as an addict and his subsequent six-month employment within the gambling industry lend significant credibility to his account. "He probably knows what he's talking about," Pocock stated, suggesting that the industry's attempts to undermine him indicate they feel threatened.

The senator believes the gambling industry is "feeling the heat" and recognizes that public sentiment has shifted against excessive gambling advertising. He asserted that the industry is employing various tactics to resist the kind of legislative changes Australians desire. Pocock also revealed that several Labor MPs have privately expressed concerns to him regarding the government's current gambling reforms.

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Clearly, this is an industry feeling the heat. They know that the tide has turned and they are trying everything they can to not have the kind of legislation that Australians want.

Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles addressed reports of division within the cabinet regarding migration policy proposed by Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke. Marles denied these claims, stating that the reports were "not right" and that Burke would soon deliver his speech on the matter. Burke had postponed a scheduled appearance at the National Press Club where he was expected to outline measures such as stricter family visa rules, a cap on backpackers, and restrictions on asylum seekers' rights.

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I've seen those reports. I don't know where they come from but they're not right. I'm not going to go into cabinet discussions.