The Greens say new research showing 1/3 young gamblers started before the age of 18 is a wake up call for Labor and Liberal to back the ban on gambling ads. Seperate research also shows gambling losses in Australia have jumped to $32b per year. The Senate returns tomorrow and will face a Greens amendment to ban gambling ads.

Key Points:

Senator Sarah Hanson-Young is Greens spokesperson for Communications:

“This new data shows gambling is becoming a rite of passage for young people, and it’s fuelled by the ads rammed down our throats during footy finals.

“Australians and young people are losing: 1/3 young gamblers started before the age of 18, and losses across the board for all ages have jumped to $32b nationally. We lose more per capita than any nation on earth.

“The public have had enough of the excuses and the political donations. The Government is dragging the chain and every delay is putting our kids in harm’s way. 

“Labor have buckled to the bookies and the public expect better. 

“With footy finals here now and gambling ads dominating, we could vote to ban the ads this week in the Senate.

“Labor and Liberal need to decide which side they are on – the bookies or Australians families?”

The Greens will move in the Senate this week to ban gambling ads in line with the Peta Murphy recommendations, amending the Regional Broadcasting Continuity Bill.