Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja has criticized the Albanese government for being '100% too slow' to ban gambling advertisements, emphasizing the urgent need to disconnect sports from wagering to protect children.

Khawaja publicly calls for an immediate ban on gambling in sports, comparing it to historic tobacco restrictions and highlighting the normalization of gambling among youth, with minors already having betting accounts and betting during games.

Independent MP Kate Chaney has criticized the government for prioritizing industry interests over community concerns in gambling regulation discussions.

While the government expresses concerns about offshore gambling, critics argue that restricting advertising would not significantly push consumers offshore and highlight the problematic influence of industry over policy.

Public health experts, including Dr. Kerrie Aust, stress the harmful effects of gambling on mental health and urge the government to act on the parliamentary report's recommendations to protect youth and promote sports free of gambling advertising.

Khawaja met with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Treasurer Jim Chalmers, though discussions focused on other issues like the Middle East conflict, with Chalmers acknowledging Khawaja’s activism with respect.

Negotiations with industry are ongoing, with legislation expected by the end of the year, but Khawaja advocates for a swift 'cold turkey' ban on gambling from sports to prevent dangerous precedents.

The government has yet to respond to a bipartisan parliamentary report recommending a comprehensive ban on gambling ads after a three-year transition, with delays attributed to opposition from broadcasters, sports, and bookmakers.