Independent senator David Pocock has been banned from the Australian Parliament Sports Club after raising concerns about its association with the gambling lobby. The former Wallabies captain was told by club chief executive Andy Turnbull that he was no longer welcome at events and was removed from group chats, according to text messages verified by Turnbull.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese criticised the ban, saying Pocock should be allowed to play. However, he dismissed Pocock's concerns about lobbying as 'absurd', stating that voluntary sport has no equivalent impact to lobbying. Albanese also noted he had spent no time at the club this year.
The club is listed on the lobbyist register and sponsored by Responsible Wagering Australia (RWA), the peak body for the gambling industry. Pocock had questioned this sponsorship during Senate estimates hearings, alleging it paid for access to decision-makers. The club and RWA deny any lobbying occurs during games.
Unions NSW secretary Mark Moray backed Pocock, calling the ban a 'legitimate question' about influence. Several crossbench MPs, including Allegra Spender, Monique Ryan, and Sophie Scamps, have resigned from the club in protest. Scamps urged the gambling industry to be removed from sport, citing harm to children.
Turnbull defended the club, saying an unwritten rule ensures no business talk on the pitches. He listed the group on the lobbyist register out of caution but has since been advised it was not required.
