Tabcorp's Expansion Plans Highlight Regulatory Gaps in Gambling Ads

In a move that has drawn significant criticism from public health experts and political figures, Tabcorp, Australia's leading betting company, has unveiled plans to enhance its gambling operations in pubs and hotels across New South Wales. This initiative, characterized by increased promotional offers and renovations to gaming rooms, has been interpreted as a clear response to government inaction regarding gambling advertisements and inducements. Independent senator David Pocock has expressed concern that this strategy reveals a troubling trend within the gambling industry, which he believes feels empowered due to the lack of stringent regulatory measures from the Albanese government.

The announcement was made on June 14, 2025, as Tabcorp aims to revitalize its presence in physical betting venues, which have fallen behind the thriving online gambling sector. The company plans to introduce special offers and promotions intended to attract more patrons to these establishments. According to Tabcorp, this includes a trial of in-play betting at venues and significant renovations to gaming areas. However, to offset the costs of these improvements, the company intends to cease offering commissions to venues generating less than $10,000 in bets weekly, a decision that has prompted backlash from the Australian Hotels Association, which represents many smaller venues struggling to remain profitable.

Critics, including Pocock and public health advocates, argue that such inducements can lead to increased gambling-related harm, particularly among younger audiences. Research by Dr. Samantha Thomas, a Professor of Public Health at Deakin University, highlights that marketing strategies like these create a perception of gambling as a low-risk activity. Her studies indicate that these promotions can contribute to a normalization of gambling behaviors among youth, undermining public health efforts aimed at reducing gambling-related harm.

The broader context of this situation is marked by a federal parliamentary inquiry led by the late Labor MP Peta Murphy, which recommended a ban on inducements. The inquiry’s findings, published in June 2023, emphasized that such promotions risk encouraging higher bets and greater losses, ultimately contradicting harm minimization strategies. Despite these recommendations, the Albanese government has yet to implement significant changes, prompting frustration from both legislators and public health advocates.

Martin Thomas, Chief Executive of the Alliance for Gambling Reform, criticized the government's inaction, stating, "Australia’s infamous title as the biggest gambling losers in the world will only get worse without action." He pointed out that Tabcorp’s latest moves are a direct reflection of the government's failure to enforce existing regulations and recommendations from the Murphy Review.

In response to the mounting criticism, a spokesperson for Tabcorp defended the company’s practices, asserting that it operates under strict regulatory oversight as Australia's most regulated wagering company. The spokesperson highlighted that Tabcorp collaborates closely with regulators to ensure compliance and minimize harm, suggesting that their promotions are aligned with responsible gambling practices.

As the debate continues, regulators in New South Wales and Victoria have indicated that they are monitoring Tabcorp’s proposals closely. The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission stated that it would be briefed on the company’s plans in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the New South Wales Liquor & Gaming department emphasized that all promotions related to gambling are subject to strict regulatory controls aimed at minimizing gambling harm.

The situation presents a critical juncture for Australia’s gambling industry. With the government facing pressure to respond decisively to the recommendations of the Murphy Review, the future of gambling advertising and inducements in the country hangs in the balance. As stakeholders from various sectors weigh in on the potential consequences of Tabcorp’s expansion plans, it remains to be seen how regulatory bodies will respond to the increasing calls for reform and enhanced consumer protections in the gambling landscape.