Key points:
- The Australian Government is considering a ban on in-stadium sideline gambling ads and potentially on betting logos on team uniforms
- Advocates like Tim Costello argue that a total ban on gambling ads is essential to protect young audiences from gambling influences
- Communications Minister Michelle Rowland has indicated support for reforms, though full advertising restrictions remain unlikely
The Australian Government is set to announce reforms that would limit in-stadium gambling advertisements, aiming to address concerns from Labor backbenchers who have been pushing for more stringent restrictions on betting promotions.
The proposed ban would specifically target digital sideline ads commonly displayed during popular sporting events such as AFL and NRL games.
This follows growing concerns about the impact of pervasive gambling ads on young audiences.
Advocates for reform – including Tim Costello, Chief Advocate of the Alliance for Gambling Reform – have described the fenceline gambling ads as “particularly offensive.”
Costello and other campaigners argue that in-stadium gambling messaging serves as a high-profile promotional tool for online sports betting companies, shaping young viewers’ perceptions of gambling as a normal part of sports culture.
Costello suggested that a comprehensive advertising ban is essential to prevent children from being influenced by gambling promotions.
Communications Minister Michelle Rowland has also been vocal about the need for reforms, signalling her support for a ban on sideline ads and possibly extending restrictions to include logos on team jerseys.
Such measures, however, would require coordination with state and territory governments to take effect.
Rowland’s office has so far declined to comment on the timing or specifics of the forthcoming changes.
The proposal to limit in-stadium advertising has sparked a debate among stakeholders, pitting those advocating for stricter controls against financially invested sports broadcasters and betting companies.
As Australia moves closer to a partial advertising ban, the question remains whether the new reforms will satisfy campaigners’ calls for more comprehensive protections against gambling influences in sport.
