Australia introduces nationwide live odds ban
South Australia proposes tobacco-style warnings on gambling ads as clampdown continues
The clampdown on gambling ads in Australia continues with the TV regulator introducing a nationwide ban and tobacco-style warnings proposed for gambling ads aired in South Australia.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority has issued new codes of practice on Wednesday banning the promotion of betting odds during play and prohibit commentators from promoting odds for 30 minutes either side of a game.
Gambling ads can still be shown before and after play as well as in scheduled breaks and during a suspension of play, but gambling representatives are banned from appearing as part of the commentary team.
‘The ACMA worked with broadcasters to enhance and harmonise the codes so they provide appropriate community safeguards for the matters covered by them,’ Chris Chapman, ACMA Chairman, said.
The ACMA said it would review the codes, which were developed in consultation with the industry, at the end of the Australian summer sports season and will continue gathering research into public opinion.
New proposals from the South Australian gambling regulator the Independent Gambling Authority from the IGA would introduce warnings on gambling advertisements within the state.
TV ads would be required to feature a warning message such as “gamble responsibly” for at least 1/6th of the ad covering at least 25% of the screen.
The proposals are part of a continued clampdown on gambling advertising in the state with the IGA concerned of the “normalisation” of gambling and its effect on children.
South Australia introduced a fast-tracked ban of live odds promotion with the new law coming into effect on August 1 with operators found to be promoting live odds face initial fines of AUS$10,000.