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

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.

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

Steve: “Do you feel like the government is now taking the views of people like yourself and your family, who've had those lived experiences of the harms of online betting in the way that Peter Murphy did, and her committee did?”

Kate*: “Unfortunately, I don't feel that way. I've been following it really closely, which is challenging because people like Anthony Albanese do have the power to make change - it's not too late for him to make the right choice.

“I'm really blown away - what would it take for someone to actually implement these changes? Peter Murphy was so brave, she lost her life, and still is not being honoured - I'm really blown away by that. I'm also blown away by the outstanding evidence that suggests a full ban is the only way ahead. And I do hear and know it's a hard problem, and I understand that the governments in a tricky position, but it's clear what the right thing is to do it. It's just a matter of bravery, really.”

Donate to help us keep up the pressure on the government.

https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/radionational-breakfast/-hounded-to-death-gambling-victim-s-family-speak-out/104359030

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

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.

“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

Papua New Guinea will soon have its own NRL team, a move backed by the Australian Government, but little thought has been given to how that might fuel a growing gambling problem in a poorly regulated environment.

Alliance Chief Advocate Tim Costello expressed his concerns: "It really devastates me that we're exporting to PNG, and the Pacific, our gambling addiction. What we know is in Australia, the greatest losses happen in the poorest areas. So put gambling and NRL together in PNG and the Pacific and you will get far greater poverty, far greater losses, far greater suicides, domestic violence and crime."

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-10-03/png-rugby-league-gambling-issue/104417356