Interactive Gambling Amendment (Gambling Reform) Bill 2026

A large majority voted against a second reading amendment motion introduced by Elizabeth Watson-Brown MP (Greens).

A normal second reading motion is "that the bill be read for a second time", which is parliamentary jargon for agreeing to the bill at the second reading stage. A second reading amendment does not change the actual text of the proposed law. Instead, it amends the motion itself and may be used to express an opinion about the bill or related policy, highlight perceived flaws, or call for further action.

Because the majority voted 'No', the amendment was unsuccessful.

Amendment text

That all words after "whilst" be omitted with a view to substituting the following words:

"declining to give the bill a second reading, the House also notes that:

(1) every day, vulnerable Australians are bombarded with gambling ads designed to keep them betting, even when they are trying to stop;

(2) Australians should have the right to enjoy sport, and to go about their lives, free from predatory gambling advertising; and

(3) passing this bill would be a massive favour to the rich gambling corporations that are ripping off Australians, robbing people of their livelihoods and taking money from struggling families".