Raff Ciccone (Victoria, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

I don't know if that's something you've considered, Senator Henderson. But it would help also if the coalition actually spoke to the industry, spoke to community groups and spoke to the range of organisations that have written to the House of Representatives inquiry, asking to give their input—

We're actually sitting this week, Senator Ruston. It would be important to look at the evidence that's being put by the industry, who actually do want to work with the government of the day in terms of making serious reforms. There are also a number of community groups who want to work with the government. I'm not sure if the coalition did consult those groups or not. I don't think that they did. Any reform in this area should be evidence based and, as parliamentarians, we should make use of the committee process to inform the development of the bills. The broad range of issues that need to be considered when reforming gambling advertising are being looked at by the committee. That's why the government will await the House of Representatives inquiry's final report and the full suite of evidence before proposing any changes.

I acknowledge the work being done by that committee and, particularly, the chair. It is a difficult policy, with many stakeholders seeking many different outcomes. I look forward to reviewing the report when it's complete.