7am Is Albanese pressuring Labor to keep quiet on gambling?
Nov 12, 2025
Steve Cannane, an ABC investigative reporter and Four Corners journalist, dives into the complexities of gambling reform in Australia. He discusses Andrew Wilkie's push for a parliamentary vote to ban gambling ads, revealing significant bipartisan support yet silence from many Labor MPs due to fear of repercussions. The episode uncovers how the Prime Minister's office allegedly pressures MPs to remain quiet and examines the stark contrast between rhetoric and action regarding gambling industry influence. Cannane highlights the alarming scale of gambling harm and the slow government response, all while hinting at the deeper political entanglements.
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Free Vote To Break Deadlock
- Andrew Wilkie argues a free vote would break the political deadlock on banning gambling ads.
- He claims the policy has broad community and parliamentary support after Four Corners coverage.
Murphy Inquiry's Major Recommendations
- The Murphy inquiry produced 31 unanimous recommendations including an ad ban, national regulator and ombudsman.
- The advertising ban dominated public debate and remains central to reform demands.
Labor MPs Want Reform But Won't Be Named
- Steve Cannane spoke to over a dozen Labor MPs who want change but refused to be named for fear of repercussions.
- He says many backbenchers would support a conscience vote and believe it would pass.