The South Sydney Rabbitohs and the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs have announced extensions to their partnerships with the NSW Government's Reclaim the Game initiative, pledging to continue reducing sports betting advertising for another three years.
This decision comes after both clubs collaborated with the initiative for the past two years, contributing to changing attitudes towards sports betting within their respective communities.
The 2023 Reclaim the Game survey indicates that supporters of both teams have become more aware of where to seek assistance for gambling-related issues. Since the inception of these partnerships, there has been an increase in awareness among Rabbitohs and Bulldogs supporters about GambleAware services, with approximately one in three now familiar with the dedicated website and helpline.
As part of their commitment to combatting betting advertising, both clubs have agreed not to display betting ads at their home games. They will also continue to promote Reclaim the Game through their communication channels and educate players, staff and fans about the risks associated with gambling.
The Rabbitohs and Bulldogs are set to face off this Friday 29 March, at Accor Stadium Homebush.
The Reclaim the Game program, launched by the NSW Government in 2020, has now expanded to include 11 partners across five sporting codes, including the AFL, A-League, cricket, NBL and NRL. The initiative aims to reduce the prevalence of sports betting advertising and promote responsible gambling practices among fans.
Alison Parkinson, Director of the Office of Responsible Gambling, said: “NRL games draw huge crowds and receive extensive media coverage. The NRL is highly intertwined with betting advertising and sponsorships, increasing the risk of gambling harm among fans.
"The Rabbitohs and Bulldogs have been pioneers against the saturation of betting ads in the NRL, helping to make their game days a family-friendly experience. Family traditions often shape support for a club and attitudes towards gambling can also be passed down through generations.”
