Opened the debate
Waters argued that Australians had lost $104 billion to gambling in the three years following the release of the Murphy report, averaging $666 million per week. Waters stated that four in five Australians supported a total ban on gambling advertising across television, radio, and online platforms. Waters contended that the government's proposed bill ignored most Murphy report recommendations and prioritised industry profits over public health. Waters noted that those between 18 and 24 years old faced almost double the high harm risk of other demographics. Waters claimed the bill contained significant loopholes, failed to establish a national gambling regulator, and relied on an opt-out model for streaming services rather than opt-in protections. Waters argued that political donations from gambling companies to major parties influenced the weak legislative response.