Australia's Federal Government introduces sweeping reforms to tackle online gambling harm

15 October 2026

The Interactive Gambling Amendment (Gambling Reform) Bill 2026, introduced to parliament on 2 July 2026, represents Australia's strongest reforms on gambling to date.

Why It Matters

The Bill targets two key factors contributing to gambling harm: the proliferation of gambling promotions and the ease with which players can override self-imposed limits. By restricting advertising reach and strengthening consumer protections, the reforms complement other government initiatives on gambling reform. Together, these measures create a more transparent and consumer-controlled gambling environment.

What the Bill Does

The reforms introduce comprehensive advertising restrictions across multiple platforms:

Online gambling advertisements will be limited to registered users aged 18+, with the option to opt out. The legislation introduces a national opt-out register, allowing users to block gambling ads across all platforms.

Television, radio, and sports venue advertising face new limitations. The bill also extends the current sports betting advertising blackout to cover all gambling advertisements.

The legislation specifically addresses direct marketing practices. New rules prohibit incentives for new sign-ups, marketing to self-excluded players, and targeting individuals during the vulnerable "cooling off" period after deregistering from BetStop. The bill also bans affiliate commissions tied to customer activity.

The Bill reinforces the existing deposit limit framework, making it mandatory for all providers. Players can set limits in advance, which cannot be immediately increased, encouraging responsible behavior and reducing impulsive decisions.

Implementation Timeline

Most changes will take effect on 1 January 2027. From next year, gamblers will benefit from enhanced opt-out tools, stricter deposit limits, and reduced targeted marketing. Online gambling operators must comply with new advertising restrictions and affiliate marketing rules.

Consumer and Industry Impact

For customers, the reforms provide greater protection from aggressive marketing and excessive gambling risks. Key improvements include the opt-out register and reinforced deposit limits, giving users more control over their gambling activity. Some experts raise concerns about potential "mindless compliance" among vulnerable users, though these issues may be addressed during implementation.

Operators must update several business practices: implementing strict age and account-based criteria for promotions, complying with customer-controlled features like deposit limits, adapting to the opt-out register system, and reforming commission structures. Some technical details may require clarification as the bill undergoes parliamentary review.

A New Regulatory Framework

The Interactive Gambling Amendment (Gambling Reform) Bill 2026 establishes a comprehensive update to Australia's online gambling regulations. Operators must work with government and consumer groups to foster more responsible gambling practices. By early 2027, features like marketing restrictions and the opt-out register will become standard for online gambling platforms. Consumers will encounter fewer gambling advertisements and more robust deposit limit protections, with penalties ensuring compliance.