Independent senator David Pocock has condemned the Albanese government's handling of online gambling advertising reforms and NDIS spending cuts, accusing both major parties of failing to stand up to vested interests.
This week, the government passed significant changes to online gambling advertising rules alongside deep reductions in NDIS spending, with the support of the Coalition. Pocock, a long-time critic of the approach to both issues, said Labor and the opposition have ignored expert evidence on the value of community participation in the NDIS.
Concerns over algorithms and scrutiny
While Pocock agrees that NDIS cuts are necessary, he warned that major parties are handing important decisions to algorithms with little scrutiny. He also said the gambling reforms were a 'real betrayal', as both parties continued to be spooked by One Nation's rise.
A notable week of deal-making
Political editor Tom McIlroy spoke to Pocock about what this notable week of deal-making means for the nation's political future. Pocock's comments come as both major parties remain wary of the political impact of One Nation's growing support.
