In Conversation with Tim Costello and Wayne Holdsworth

On Thursday 23 July 2026, Committee members joined Rev. Tim Costello AO and Wayne Holdsworth for a discussion about sports gambling reform and the u16's social media ban. 

Both of these social causes were born in Frankston, including the Parliamentary inquiry into sports gambling chaired and championed by the late Peta Murphy MP.

Wayne and Tim spoke about their unique journeys and personal stories on these two issues, before answering thoughtful and pointed questions from our members.

Wayne Holdsworth

Rev. Tim Costello AO

Jade Phelan, CFMP Board Member

Wayne's advocacy in his son's Mac’s name has helped change the national conversation about young people, social media and online safety.

On a national stage, Wayne and other parents impacted by the harmful use of social media have taken significant strides over the past three years.

Australia is now leading the world on under-16 social media reform.

Tim's national advocacy on sports gambling reform is relentless and a reminder that important social reforms like these are never easy.

Tim's leadership on this issue is commendable and we’re proud to have him as a member of our community.

The late Peta Murphy's inquiry report gave this country a serious, evidence-based roadmap for reducing sports gambling harm - and now we urge the government to take strong action.

If we accept that online environments like social media harm children, why should we accept the relentless normalisation of gambling around sport to families, young people, impressionable people, and vulnerable Australians?

Peta's report asked us to treat it as a public health issue and to place responsibility where it belongs: industry and regulators.

Frankston has a special place in both of these reform stories. Wayne’s advocacy, Tim’s leadership, and Peta’s determination all connect directly to the Peninsula. That gives us a responsibility, but also an opportunity, to keep leading with compassion, evidence and courage.

Thank you to Sages Cottage (Wallara) for hosting this insightful forum at the beautiful Hub at Sages. 

The Hub @ Sages

Tim Costello in conversation with CEO Josh Sinclair

CFMP Members