Online gambling inquiry on the cards

Online betting will be scrutinized as a parliamentary investigation targets its impact on people with gambling problems.

The House of Representatives Committee on Social Policy and Legal Affairs calls on stakeholders, especially recommendations on improving consumer protection aimed at reducing problem gambling.

It will also examine the effectiveness of advertising restrictions in preventing children from being exposed to gambling.

The investigation comes amid growing demands for something to be done about the slew of gambling advertisements shown on live sports broadcasts, often on prime-time TV times. .

Social media advertising, sponsorship and branding will also be examined.

Labor MP Peta Murphy said the committee is particularly concerned about the effects of advertisements on young people.

“The survey will take a fresh look at online gambling and determine whether current laws, regulations, consumer protection and education and support programs are sufficient to reduce the harm to players,” said the committee chair.

“The committee is concerned about the growing impact of online gaming platforms on the lives of Australians, the exposure of children and young people to gambling advertising and how this could contribute to the rise of problem gambling in the future.”

Other issues to consider include how current laws hold up in the light of new technologies, payment options and betting products.

The effectiveness of the advice and the quality of the online gambling educational programs are included in the terms of reference.

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