Government warns ‘change is needed’ as it mulls proposed gambling ad ban
A proposed ban on gambling advertising is still being considered, but the government has declared “the status quo is untenable” and change is inevitable.
A parliamentary inquiry late last month handed down a report into the harms posed by online gambling and made 31 sweeping recommendations for reform.
Among them was a three-year phase out of virtually all advertising of gambling, which could cost media proprietors about $300 million a year.
Not understating the issue or importance of it, the big problem that needs to be addressed is the odds as part of content in particular around sports. They’re integrated so tightly with the broadcast that for children it feels like the norm and for people who have challenges with gambling I am sure it would be an issue.
I am sure they are highly effective tools for advertisers but it doesn’t mean they should be able to promote gambling in this way.
If they were to ban the use of odds in gambling ads it, but continue to allow betting advertisers to promote their point of differences, brands and content it will not be as severe an impact to the media and creative industries that are already doing it tough.
Two key points – the poll capturing the mood of AFL fans was run by the AFL Fans Association and was completely flawed.
Secondly, The loss of revenue for sporting codes will mean significantly less money in the next broadcast rights deals. It’s not like Cadbury or BHP is gonna cover the difference.
I’m a parent of young kids who watch sport non-stop – they really don’t notice the ads.