Gambling Advertisement 'double Standard' As PM Touts Child Safety

Anger is bubbling at the perceived hypocrisy of teenagers being prohibited from social networks to reduce harm, however still having the ability to be targeted by betting advertisements.


Community advocates, Labor backbenchers, union and crossbench MPs and even the gambling lobby have lamented the federal government for not taking action on gambling marketing, two years after a landmark report into gambling harm.


Liberal MP Simon Kennedy, who is co-chairing the parliamentary pals of gambling damage minimisation group, accused Labor of hypocrisy for making such a big song and dance over child security when prohibiting them from social networks, however not doing anything to stop them being bombarded with gambling ads on other platforms.


"The prime minister desires to prohibit teens from social media in the name of kid security, yet he declines to confront the gaming market that is actively targeting young Australians online or on TV," Mr Kennedy informed AAP.


"Australians should ask why the prime minister has this double standard."


The group is co-chaired by outspoken Labor backbencher Mike Freelander, who is requiring action on the problem and has called for a conscience vote on reforms to guarantee they pass in a prompt way.


There are rumours Communications Minister Anika Wells is working on a reform package to be unveiled before March.


The accusations of a go-slow on reform have stimulated aggravations from Labor as the spotlight is again shone on its failure to execute the crucial suggestion of phasing out online gaming advertising.


A noticeably inflamed prime minister rapidly shut down a question from independent MP Zali Steggall when asked if ruthless gaming advertising was acceptable, offering a terse "No" in reply.


Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek was similarly terse on morning radio, implicating the host of being "consumed about the betting marketing" when inquired about a lack of action and the link in between betting damage and domestic violence.


Ms Plibersek on Tuesday announced more financing for a domestic violence hotline but was inquired about aggravations concerning the federal government stopping working to reply to 31 suggestions from a landmark gambling damage query 2 years later on.


Alcohol and drugs, issue gaming and online misogyny were very important aspects that needed to be addressed, she told ABC radio on Tuesday.


"Will continue to work to resolve this as an issue however it's not the only issue when it pertains to household, domestic and sexual violence," she said.


The social services department is called as the lead firm accountable for majority of the suggestions, consisting of developing a thorough online betting harm decrease method.


Even the betting lobby has revealed frustrations about the lack of certainty over reforms, drifting their own compromises on advertising limitations and restrictions.


It has likewise stated it wanted to keep online marketing, including on social networks and streaming services, however it would only be to logged-in, age-verified accounts so it does not target kids, and there would be an opt-out system.