The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) has welcomed NSW Labor's commitment to stronger poker machine reforms, while expressing concern that proposed Federal gambling advertising reforms do not go far enough to protect Australians from gambling-related harm.

RANZCP President-Elect Dr Angelo Virgona said the contrasting debates occurring at state and federal levels demonstrated growing recognition of gambling harm as a public health issue but highlighted the need for governments to take a more consistent, evidence-based approach.

"Last weekend, NSW Labor committed to significant reductions in poker machine numbers and stronger harm minimisation measures following advocacy by RANZCP NSW Branch and other campaigners," Dr Virgona said.

"We welcome that decision because reducing exposure to harmful gambling products is one of the most effective ways to prevent harm."

At the same time, Dr Virgona said concerns raised about proposed Federal gambling advertising reforms reflected a broader frustration that governments were not acting with the same urgency when it came to gambling promotion.

"The evidence is clear that gambling advertising contributes to gambling harm and normalises gambling, particularly among children and young people.

"It makes little sense to acknowledge the harms caused by gambling while continuing to permit widespread promotion of gambling products."

The RANZCP's position statement on gambling-related harm calls for governments to legislate for the cessation of gambling advertising on television and online and identifies gambling advertising as a significant contributor to harmful gambling behaviours.

"Gambling disorder is recognised internationally as an addictive disorder. It is a public health and mental health issue," Dr Virgona said.

"People rarely present with gambling harm in isolation. Psychiatrists often see it alongside depression, anxiety, trauma, alcohol and other substance use disorders. We also know people experiencing gambling-related harm are at increased risk of self-harm and suicide.

"The evidence linking gambling advertising and harmful gambling behaviour is well established. Advertising does not just encourage gambling participation, it helps normalise gambling in everyday life.

"Children and young people are growing up in an environment where gambling is increasingly embedded in sport, as a result of years of pervasive advertising and promotion.

"At a time when more Australians are watching sport through streaming services, we are concerned by reports that proposed reforms could weaken protections on those platforms. 

“Reform should be reducing people’s exposure to gambling advertising wherever they watch sport, not simply shifting that exposure from one screen to another.”

Dr Virgona said the College was encouraged to see growing support for stronger gambling harm reduction measures across the political spectrum, including calls for tougher restrictions on gambling advertising to better reflect the evidence and the recommendations of the Murphy Inquiry.

"If governments are serious about reducing gambling harm, action cannot stop with poker machines. We also need stronger national restrictions on gambling advertising and inducements.

"The goal should be simple: reduce exposure to the products and promotions that drive harm. We welcome NSW Labor's recognition of that principle on poker machines and urge the Federal Government to apply the same evidence-based approach to gambling advertising and inducements.

"We also need to ensure people experiencing gambling-related harm can access timely support and treatment from trained mental health and addiction professionals."

ENQUIRIES: For more information, or to arrange an interview call Dishi Gahlowt on +61 437 315 911 or email media@ranzcp.org.

The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists is a membership organisation that prepares medical specialists in the field of psychiatry, supports and enhances clinical practice, advocates for people affected by mental illness and advises governments and other groups on mental health care. For information about our work, our members or our history, visit www.ranzcp.org.

In Australia: If you or someone you know needs help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or www.lifeline.org.au or the Suicide Callback Service on 1300 659 467 or www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au.

In New Zealand: If you or someone you know needs help, contact Lifeline NZ on 0800 543 354 or www.lifeline.org.nz or the Suicide Crisis Helpline on 0508 828 865 or www.lifeline.org.nz/suicide-prevention.