UPDATE: Independent MP Helen Dalton is making headlines today as she escalates her fight against the proliferation of gambling apps and pokies, calling for immediate reforms in the wake of her recognition with the 2025 Uniting Political Courage Award on November 6, 2025.
In a passionate address, Dalton condemned the rise of sports betting applications, labeling them as “absolutely disgusting.” She stated, “The apps and the advertising should never have been allowed to happen.” Her remarks underscore growing concerns over the impact of gambling on youth and the culture of sports, emphasizing that young people are now more interested in betting odds than the games themselves.
Dalton’s urgent plea for reform is not just about rhetoric; it’s about action. “I think they should be taken down immediately,” she demanded, highlighting the overwhelming presence of gambling advertisements that she believes invades the sanctity of home life. She criticized the lack of action from the Labor party, saying, “Labor is supposed to have a social agenda, but I don’t see that… it’s those with an addiction who are suffering.”
Alongside her campaign against betting apps, Dalton is pushing for legislative changes to hold gambling companies accountable for profiting from addiction. She is advocating for a bill that would require these companies to return what she terms “ill-got gains” to their victims. “They shouldn’t make money from crime,” she asserted, noting that public support for her bill is strong despite resistance from major parties.
Dalton is also spearheading a cross-bench initiative aimed at reducing the operating hours of pokie machines in New South Wales, a state grappling with significant gambling addiction issues. “NSW is one of the biggest losers on the issue,” she remarked, indicating a need for urgent reform.
Despite the challenges, Dalton expressed optimism about the potential for change. She noted that many pubs are beginning to recognize the necessity of diversifying their offerings beyond pokies, identifying them as crucial social hubs in rural communities, especially amidst rising living costs.
During her acceptance speech for the Uniting Political Courage Award, presented at the Harry Herbert Oration in Sydney, Dalton reflected on the courage required to advocate for social justice in the face of opposition. “Standing up for fairness isn’t always easy, but it’s always the right thing to do,” she stated, crediting the award to every regional Australian who has bravely spoken out against gambling.
The Uniting Political Courage Award is awarded to leaders demonstrating integrity and commitment to social justice, inspired by the legacy of the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award. Dalton’s recognition comes as she continues to battle entrenched interests in the gambling sector, highlighting a critical moment for reform in Australia.
As Dalton’s campaign gains momentum, all eyes are on the upcoming legislative sessions to see if her persistent advocacy will translate into tangible changes in gambling policy. The urgency for reform has never been greater, and Dalton’s voice is pivotal in this ongoing struggle against gambling addiction and its societal impacts.
Stay tuned for more updates as this significant story develops.
