Key points:
- ACMA found Foxtel in breach of gambling ad regulations during an AFL match in April 2024
- The ad did not include a sufficient responsible gambling message, as required by the subscription TV code of practice
- Foxtel has since taken corrective measures and committed to further compliance training
Foxtel Cable Television has been found in breach of Australian gambling advertising regulations following an investigation by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA).
The incident occurred during the broadcast of an Australian Football League (AFL) match between Port Adelaide and Essendon in April 2024.
According to ACMA’s findings, a virtual banner promoting a gambling operator was displayed during the live coverage of the match without including an adequate responsible gambling message.
Under the subscription television code of practice, all gambling advertisements aired during live sports broadcasts must carry a message warning of the potential risks associated with gambling.
ACMA authority member Carolyn Lidgerwood emphasised the importance of these regulations, stating: “These messages must emphasise the potential harms and risks of gambling if it is not undertaken responsibly. An ‘18+’ logo on its own is not an adequate responsible gambling message.”
Once the breach was identified, Foxtel took immediate action to rectify the issue by adding the required responsible gambling tagline to the advertisement.
Additionally, the broadcaster has committed to further staff training to ensure compliance with gambling advertising regulations.
The breach by Foxtel follows a separate ACMA investigation last month, which found Network Ten (Sydney) in violation of gambling advertising restrictions during the 2024 Australia Formula 1 Grand Prix.
