Former Tabcorp CEO demands stricter rules on gambling ads

Elmer Funke Kupper, former Tabcorp Chief Executive, has called on the Albanese Government to tighten gambling advertising rules, warning that young Australians are at risk.

Describing tougher advertising rules as “one of the simplest acts of leadership,” Kupper highlighted that more than 600,000 teenagers aged 12 to 17 had gambled in the past year, with participation rising to 46% among 18- and 19-year-olds.

While noting that gambling itself is heavily regulated, Kupper said advertising remains “largely unregulated.” He called for immediate bans on ads in stadiums, on team uniforms, and during the hour before sports broadcasts.

Recent data from the Australian National University shows that 19.4% of adults are now gambling at risky levels, the highest figure in six years. Australians lose an estimated AU$25 billion (US$16.55 billion) annually per capita to gambling, giving the country the world’s highest rate of gambling-related financial harm.

Communications Minister Anika Wells said the government is continuing to consult widely on the issue, describing the process as complex but important. She rejected claims that consultations had favoured industry stakeholders.

However, public health experts expressed frustration at the pace of reform. Professor Samantha Thomas of Deakin University said the ubiquity of gambling advertising was normalising the behaviour among young people.

Independent senator David Pocock warned that without reform, the review led by the late MP Peta Murphy could be ignored. He said young people should be able to enjoy sport free from constant betting ads.

Moreover, Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young added that any measure short of a comprehensive ban would constitute a “huge breach of faith” with the community.