ACMA finds Kayo to be in breach of gambling advertising rules

In total, 16 different gambling advertisements were present outside of the permitted times. 

gambling advertising
Listen To Article

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has found Kayo, a sports streaming service, to be in breach of rules surrounding gambling advertising rules. 

Kayo, which is owned by Hubbl, was said to have presented a number of gambling advertisements during live sports events outside the time period in which it is allowed. 

In Australia, gambling advertisements must not be shown by online content providers during live sports events between 5am and 8:30pm, including in the five minutes before and after the event 

Hubbl was investigated by the ACMA after complaints from viewers were received, which related to livestreams of several sporting events. 

The investigations carried out by the ACMA found that there had been 16 different gambling advertisements outside the permitted times across a total of 267 live sport events. 

Hubbl stated that the reason behind this was a system error that affected viewers using iOS applications during a six-week period between February and March 2023. 

In response, the ACMA has issued a remedial direction for Hubbl to organise an external audit of its technical systems and processes, including those measures which were implemented after the breaches. 

Should Hubbl fail to comply, it may be ordered to pay penalties up to $626,000 (US$415,585.75) per day by the Federal Court. 

ACMA Authority member Carolyn Lidgerwood said: “Online streaming services as well as broadcasters all have a responsibility to put robust systems in place so that they adhere to these long-standing gambling advertising rules. 

“The rules are there to reduce viewer exposure to gambling ads, particularly for impressionable young audiences and those vulnerable to gambling harms. In this case Hubbl has let those viewers down.” 

Last week, the ACMA blocked illegal offshore gambling websites with the help of local Australian ISPs, including A Big Candy, Jackpoty and John Vegas Casino. 

Premium+ Connections
 
Premium
 
Premium
 
Premium
 
 
Premium
 
Premium
 
Premium
 
Premium
 
Premium Connections
Consultancy
Executive Profiles
Star Sports Group
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon
Follow Us

Facing Facts: Analysing figures from emerging gambling markets

Where is the gambling market on the rise, and are there any...

Taking Stock: A guide to lottery/iLottery operator and supplier prices

Gambling Insider tracks lottery/iLottery operator and suppli...

New Horizons Cover Feature: United Arab Emirates

With its first land-based casino set to open in 2027 and a n...

New Horizons Cover Feature: Brazil

Brazil performed quite the feat by getting its heavily delay...

The best of Malta at the Global Gaming Awards

Powered by Gambling Insider, the Global Gaming Awards are th...

Preview: SiGMA Malta 2024

A place in the winter sun: SiGMA returns to the home of iGa...

Company profile: Soft2Bet

Bill 55: Advantages and challenges for Maltese operators in...

Company profile: DS Virtual Gaming

DS Virtual Gaming is a leader in the gaming industry, utilis...