Opened the debate
Wells argued that the bill protects Australians, particularly children, from gambling harms by reducing advertising saturation and exposure. Wells stated that the legislation bans wagering ads during live sports coverage between 6 am and 8.30 pm and caps broadcast ads at three per hour. Wells explained that online gambling ads are banned unless users are over 18, logged in, and have opted out. Wells highlighted provisions to disrupt illegal offshore operators by requiring financial institutions and digital services to block access and transactions. Wells noted that the bill strengthens BetStop, bans online keno and foreign matched lotteries, and regulates fake trade promotion lotteries to protect charities and small businesses.