Prime Minister Albanese dismissed the controversy as an attempt by Pocock to create a story, describing the club as a voluntary, charity-raising organization, and downplaying concerns about its lobbying activities.

Pocock highlighted the club's registration as a lobby group with clients from industries like gambling, alcohol, and fossil fuels, questioning the prime minister's role as president, which Albanese dismissed as media sensationalism.

The club and its CEO emphasized that their activities are harmless and that sponsors do not use the club for political purposes, despite ongoing criticism.

Turnbull accused Pocock of making a 'cheap shot' and expressed disappointment over the politicization of what is intended to be a sports and charity organization.

Independent senator David Pocock criticized the club's sponsorship, highlighting the influence of vested interests and the normalization of gambling lobbying in Canberra, which led to his expulsion from the club after raising concerns about Prime Minister Albanese's role as its president.

Officials clarified that the club was not actively lobbying, but critics argue it provides an opportunity for influence among wealthy interests, raising questions about its registration status.

Text messages from Turnbull revealed the club's displeasure with Pocock, criticizing his politicization of the organization and noting their previous positive relationship.

Independent MP Allegra Spender resigned from the club earlier, condemning its relationship with gambling firms as an 'absolute disgrace' and criticizing its role in promoting gambling.

The controversy underscores ongoing debates about the relationship between gambling, politics, and transparency, with critics calling for greater scrutiny of social clubs and their sponsorships.

Pocock was expelled from the club's group chats and told it was inappropriate for him to remain a member due to his public criticisms of the gambling lobby's influence.

Pocock questioned why the club, registered as a lobbyist group, had Responsible Wagering Australia as a member and why Albanese was president of the organization, which includes major betting companies.

Pocock questioned the club's ties to the gambling industry and its registration as a lobby group, raising concerns about transparency and influence among wealthy interests, especially given the club's association with major betting companies like Responsible Wagering Australia.

Club CEO Andy Turnbull defended the organization as apolitical and stated that Pocock's criticisms politicized the club, which he said was focused on social sports and charity work, denying any improper lobbying or influence.