Lobby groups hit out at ‘harmful’ advertising during State of Origin

Public health groups are lobbying for a change in advertising laws around major sporting events, as a new study finds 25% of State of Origin sponsorship this year is by companies who promote gambling, alcohol or unhealthy food.

The Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education found that during the current 2023 Origin series, seven alcohol companies, seven junk food brands and two gambling platforms are among the official sponsors.

Tooheys and Jim Beam have prominent sponsorships in place with the New South Wales team, while Ned Whiskey and XXXX have deals with Queensland. The overall State of Origin Series is sponsored by Bundaberg and VB – as well as DrinkWise.