Anthony Chisholm (Queensland, Australian Labor Party, Assistant Minister for Regional Development) | Hansard source

I certainly value the work that Senate committees do on a daily basis, and it's disappointing that you don't in this regard. Governments go through the process of responding to Senate reports or joint reports or whatever it is, but it's obviously always up to the government to implement the legislative changes that might result from a report. I understand that there's a lot of interest in this issue and the bill before us that we're dealing with tonight—not only in this chamber but also in the House of Representatives and among the Australian people as well. I think that that is why it has taken time to ensure that we get the balance right in terms of what is in this reform.

I understand that you have a point of view different from the government's on this matter, but we are taking this issue seriously. The reforms that we have announced as part of this legislation are going to make a meaningful difference. I understand that it's not in your political interest to acknowledge that, but it is something that we are determined to deliver on, because we know that it is going to make a difference for people—not only those who are at risk of harm or who may be suffering from harm but also for young people. The important reforms that we're talking about are absolutely going to make an important contribution. As I've said repeatedly, they are the strongest action that any government has ever taken in terms of dealing with the harms of gambling. There has been extensive consultation that we've dealt with over a number of years. We've listened to a range of views across the community and we've heard from many people about the impact that this legislation will have, and that's why it's important.

I will point to the important parts of the reform that will make a difference and that I believe Australians will welcome and that will make a difference to their lives. The blackout period for live sports restrictions changes the live sport blackout rules from five minutes before live sport to 15 minutes before live sport between 5 am and 8:30 pm. It bans commissions of financial incentives to staff and affiliates based on consumer activity. It bans direct marketing and inducements of red-flag customers. It bans direct marketing and inducements on those who are opening a new account.

I, at the end of the day, understand that the Greens and others are often so impotent in terms of actually delivering meaningful change that is going to make a difference for many people across the country. They actually prefer to come in here and grandstand rather than do the hard work that is going to make a difference for people across the country. We've seen plenty of it tonight. It is disappointing that they can't actually recognise that this legislation is the most meaningful legislation that any government has brought before this chamber on gambling reform, and it is disappointing that they will not acknowledge the hard work that has gone into achieving a significant result in this matter.