Australia Could Consider Full Gambling Ad Ban, National Gaming Regulator - Newstbt.com

A recent federal government commission report in Australia may produce significant changes to the gambling scene. Despite just being published, the proposed alterations, such as outlawing all wagering advertising and forming a fresh regulatory body, are already starting a lot of debate.

Australia’s Parliament House in Canberra has commissioned a new report entitled “You Win Some, You Lose More” that recommends a permanent ban on all online gambling advertisements, including incentives such as instant cash vouchers. The report also suggests that a move to a federal regulatory platform may be in order, instead of the present state and territories gambling laws. If enacted, this regulation change will make gambling a leading enemy of Australians within the span of three years. (Image: Shutterstock)

Gambling Becomes Leading Enemy

After a nine-month investigation that produced a report, many testimonies revealed the detrimental consequences and societal repercussions the government attributes to online gambling. Nevertheless, according to Finder.com data, the rate of problem gambling in Australia is barely above 1%. In light of this, government officials advise an immediate start of a plan composed of four phases. The first phase would restrain gambling inducements like bonuses and credits. The second involves blocking all kinds of publicity regarding online gambling, including game odds, for one hour preceding and following the match, in addition to forbidding ads in sports stadiums and on players’ apparel. The third would limit the “broadcast online gambling” window to the period of time between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Finally, the fourth phase seeks to remove all advertisements and sponsorships relating to online gambling.

Should the government choose to pursue the plan, each phase would be implemeted incrementally, with an aim to complete all phases within the three year period. Local media broadcasters will not be subject to restrictions until the end of 2025, excluding those concerning gambling advertisements on specially designated racing channels. Additionally, a national regulator for online gambling and a national ombudsman for online gambling might be established. Furthermore, a federal minister could be appointed to manage the issue of responsible gambling. The response to the proposal has been mixed.

Mixed Reactions

In Australia, there seems to be a fear of allowing consumers to decide how they should spend their money. Opponents of gambling assert that Aussies lose around AU$25 billion (US$16.5 billion) annually due to gambling. However, those who are indulging in these activities are simply using the money to partake in their chosen entertainment, which some may not perceive as a “loss.” Statistics from the government report that there are 6.8 million active gamblers in the nation, and the average amount of expenditure by each individual is AU$3,676 (US$2,440). Also, it has to be taken into account that these activities contribute to job growth and revenue for different states. The same goes for the AU$8 billion (US$5.31 billion) that Australians spend annually on coffee. This report has brought forth various opinions from both consumers and politicians. Peter Dutton, leader of the Liberal Party of Australia, approves of the propositions and wants the government to execute the rules soon. The Public Health Association of Australia also agrees with this sentiment.

Free TV Australia, an organization representing commercial broadcasters, has called the government’s recommendations a “kneejerk” reaction due to the implications such a ban on advertising may have on broadcasters, who may be faced with limiting their content or making other cuts, which could negatively impact Australian consumers. IAB Australia, a nonprofit trade association for the online advertising sector, has also argued that the government should use pre-existing tools to control, such as online ads, rather than enacting a complete ban. Both organizations have encouraged a swift response from the government.