Story perspectives

Albanese, Wells win cross-party backing for gambling ad limits

8/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and communications minister Anika Wells won cross-party backing for gambling-ad restrictions, prompting two MPs to cross the floor.
Bill creates an “opt-out register” for gambling ads but may miss the 1 January 2027 deadline.
Wells said ads will be banned for at-risk customers for 14 days after sign-up and three months after leaving BetStop.
Senator David Pocock called the deal a betrayal, prompting a three-year statutory review.

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Story summary

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and communications minister Anika Wells won cross-party backing for gambling-ad restrictions, prompting two MPs to cross the floor.
Bill creates an “opt-out register” for gambling ads but may miss the 1 January 2027 deadline.
Wells said ads will be banned for at-risk customers for 14 days after sign-up and three months after leaving BetStop.
Senator David Pocock called the deal a betrayal, prompting a three-year statutory review.