It’s now over two years since the “You Win Some, You Lose More” report called for urgent gambling reform. But the government still hasn’t acted on its most critical recommendation: a total ban on gambling advertising.

Alliance Voices Advocate Mark Kempster, who bravely gave evidence to the inquiry, says: “If the government think they’re doing enough, I can tell them right now they’re costing lives.” He describes feeling abandoned after years of advocacy.

Alliance CEO Martin Thomas says the inquiry was “a perfect blueprint”—but warns: “The government has a choice between vested interests and the majority of Australians.”

Enough delay. Gambling harm is rising.

It’s been two years since the Murphy Report — and the government has done nothing. Mark Kempster joined ABC’s Hack to expose the constant targeting by gambling companies:

"When they know you're a big gambler and they've got you on the hook, they'll send you so many different promotions. It's the same as if you were trying to get off cigarettes, and having someone walk in and offer you a cigarette every day, or every hour. You're not going to be able to get to a point where you can fix yourself because you just have it in your face so much."

We want Peta Murphy’s inquiry report fully implemented, including all 31 recommendations. That means banning gambling ads, banning inducements, and creating a National Regulator. ▶️⌚6m8s

Gambling harm cost Victoria over $14 billion in 2022–23. Pokies are driving the damage — two-thirds of losses came from those experiencing the most harm.

Louise* was just seven when she first noticed jewellery and household items disappearing from her home. Her mother was selling furniture and appliances to fund her gambling addiction. By the time Louise turned 14, the situation had reached a devastating turning point.

"I came home one day when I was 14 years old to find I didn't have a home anymore," said Louise, now an Alliance Voices Advocate. "We'd also go a few days at a time without much to eat."

Alliance CEO Martin Thomas said: “Everyone is being harmed here — not just the gamblers, but their families, workplaces, and the broader community. The government knows that mandatory carded play is the gold standard for reducing harm from gambling. It's time for Labor to put their foot down and demonstrate their progressive credentials, their commitment to social justice, and the people they represent."