Australian government plots crackdown on gambling TV ads
Prime Minister Turnbull's administration could limit the number of betting ads permitted during TV sporting broadcasts
The Australian federal government is planning to launch a major crackdown on gambling adverts aired during TV sporting events, according to Australian press reports.
Fairfax Media reported today that Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull’s government could cut the number of gambling adverts permitted to secure the backing of Senator Nick Xenophon for other legislation.
The government is currently pushing through a bill through Parliament for the deregulation of media ownership laws and Xenophen’s vote is seen as being crucial for the bill to pass.
The Senator has long been one of Australia’s most fervent anti-gambling politicians and is believed to be pushing for a TV ad ban in his negotiations with the government.
Australia’s laws prohibit gambling commercials during children’s viewing hours but TV broadcasters are still currently able to air an unlimited number of ads during sporting events.
Stephen Conroy, CEO of the Responsible Wagering Australia (RWA) said in a statement: “RWA welcomes government consultation with the wagering industry, community groups, sporting organisations and broadcasters to achieve meaningful reductions in wagering advertising.”
The RWA was set up late last year to replace the now defunct Australian Wagering Council (AWC), with members including bet365 and Sportsbet.