Australia Institute Proposes 2% Gambling Levy

The Australia Institute has proposed a 2% levy on gambling operators' revenues to compensate for an estimated $240 million loss in advertising income if gambling ads are banned. This levy, which would apply to the $17.2 billion generated by the gambling industry in Australia, aims to support media companies while also providing additional funding for public broadcasters like the ABC. Stephen Long, a senior fellow at the Australia Institute, noted that this approach could help mitigate the harmful effects of gambling advertising on vulnerable populations. The proposal is receiving support from political groups, including the Greens, as part of a broader campaign to restrict gambling ads. The Albanese government is currently considering various options regarding gambling advertising regulations, which include both caps and potential bans. This initiative highlights the urgent need for policies addressing Australia's significant gambling losses, estimated at $25 billion annually.