Ed’s story is a profound reminder of the consequences of unchecked gambling and the incredible strength it takes to rebuild from the lowest points. He faced loss, isolation, and imprisonment but found hope and redemption through the support of his community and a commitment to change.

As he says, “I’ve been lucky enough to get a second chance, and I’m doing my best to make it count. If my story can help just one person avoid what I went through, then it’s worth it.”

At the Alliance for Gambling Reform, we believe in the power of shared experiences. Stories like Ed’s can inspire others and drive meaningful change. If you have a story to share, we’d love to hear from you. Your voice could help protect others and promote a healthier, safer community for everyone.

Send your story to us at info@agr.org.au, and let’s work together to make a difference.

https://www.agr.org.au/ed-sredemption-anadvocateforchange

Yesterday, the Greens introduced their Ban Gambling Ads Bill to the Senate. The Bill will ban gambling ads on TV, radio, print, and online consistent with the multi-party parliamentary inquiry recommendations.

The Alliance for Gambling Reform, which previoulsy gathered over 35,000 signatures to #EndGamblingAds, has long called for the adoption of all 31 recommendations from the inquiry. Gambling ads exploit children and young people, normalize gambling, and contribute to harmful behaviors.

In the latest Behind The Mask Podcast episode, hosted by Josh Piterman, the Alliance’s Tim Costello and Mark Kempster tackle Australia’s gambling crisis. With just 0.33% of the world’s population, Australia houses 20% of all pokies and broadcasts 943 gambling ads daily.

They discuss gambling's impact on families, rising harm, and the urgent need for reform. Listen to Mark's journey, the effect of ads on children, and how Peta Murphy’s recommendations could make a difference. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OuZuwGF_Uio

Donate today to help us #EndGamblingAds

#GamblingReform #BehindTheMaskPodcast

New FOI documents reveal a skewed gambling reform consultation, with Minister Rowland focusing on media and sports industry stakeholders while neglecting those impacted by gambling-related harm. Voices suffering from financial, legal, health, and family issues are being overlooked, as corporate interests dominate the conversation. It’s time to ask: whose voices really matter in this debate? #GamblingReform #PublicInterest #CorporateInfluence #MarinatedMinisters MWestMedia

Recent research has confirmed that reducing the number of poker machines in the ACT has not effectively reduced gambling harm. The Alliance has consistently argued that simply cutting back on machines is not a sufficient solution. The most effective approach—the "gold standard"—is implementing a mandatory cashless system with pre-commitment levels.

This approach was recommended by the NSW Crime Commission as a means to both reduce gambling harm and combat money laundering. It is also the strategy currently being adopted in Tasmania.

“I went to an NRL game and saw kids—teenagers—on their phones looking at betting apps. It’s become part of the culture, and that’s what scares me. I was consumed by gambling at a young age, and that was before it was anywhere near as pervasive as it is today.” – Ed, Voice for Gambling Reform Advocate

Gambling ads are everywhere, from AFL and NRL broadcasts to social media, reaching our kids at a time when they're most vulnerable. It’s crucial that we take action now to prevent future generations from falling into the same trap.

Full story: https://www.agr.org.au/ed-sredemption-anadvocateforchange