The Australian Government has set itself a busy agenda of media regulatory reform. It has already implemented several changes since coming to office, however numerous promised media policies remain unrealised. This paper briefly outlines key pieces of media policy and regulation that may be expected in 2026.

Companies are using sophisticated data-driven marketing methods to track, profile and target Australians with advertising of harmful and addictive products, including gambling, alcohol and unhealthy food. This report calls for a strong regulatory response to address the harms. It recommends a range of measures that will help create safer online spaces for people most at...

The final report for an inquiry into markets for the supply of digital platform services. The report examines recent international legislative and regulatory developments, unfair trading practices and dispute resolution; major developments and key trends in services; and potential and emerging competition and consumer issues. The report reinforces the need for regulatory reform.

Australians of all ages are engaging with gaming to relax, learn or connect with friends, but common design features can leave players worse-off – 95% of Australian adult gamers encounter manipulative design practices in digital games, leading to financial losses and emotional distress. The report makes 9 recommendations to protect vulnerable players, improve consumer protection...

This summary explores a study of the social contexts, harms and predictors of co-consumption of gambling and alcohol in youths and young adults (aged 16–35 years) living in Australia. Around half of survey participants said they ‘often’, ‘very often/almost always’ or ‘always’ consumed alcohol when gambling.