STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Dr RYAN (Kooyong) (13:32): Raise Our Voice in Parliament has amplified the voices of young people aged 25 and under. This speech was written by a local young person from Kooyong Emily, aged 14. Emily says: I'm a huge sports fan.

Swimming, netball, cricket, footy, I can access them all through streaming and live TV. But when my family gathers to support our favourite team, one problem remains: gambling ads. They're absolutely everywhere.

Betting is presented to young people as exciting, entertaining and normal, while betting companies are the ones who are cashing in. 3 in 10 Australians aged 12-17 gamble. The problem is we're growing up in a culture where gambling is "normal". The government is eyeing the ball but is not hitting sixes.

Gambling reforms are expected to take place in 2027, but, if we're serious about protecting young Australians, these reforms don't go far enough. It's time to step up to the crease and take a stand. New laws should prohibit gambling advertising, sponsorship and branding across major Australian sporting broadcasts, replays and competitions.

The future of young Australians shouldn't be a gamble. I couldn't agree more, Emily. Thank you for raising your voice.

Thank you for speaking out for the young people of Kooyong.