Sportsbet and Tabcorp have denied allegations that problem gamblers were supplied with cocaine, alcohol, and sex workers, as a Senate inquiry into gambling legislation continued.
Allegations and Denials
The parliamentary inquiry heard testimony from anti-gambling campaigners Tim Costello and Luke Bateman, who made the allegations. However, giving evidence today, the betting giants said there is no evidence to substantiate the claims.
Later in the hearing, independent senator David Pocock questioned Responsible Wagering Australia about a betting platform's promotion featuring children. Pocock accused the industry of blaming others for children's exposure to gambling ads, stating: "This is exactly why Australians are sick and tired of the BS you try and tell us."
Government Response
Acting Prime Minister Richard Marles described the evidence from the inquiry so far as "quite shocking."
