Sydney Swans & Macarthur FC join fight against gambling promotion
The NSW Office of Responsible Gambling has entered into two new partnerships with prominent Sydney sporting teams, as part of its Reclaim The Game – Gamble Aware initiative.
Following partnerships with Cricket NSW and the Western Sydney Wanderers, fans of fellow A-League club Macarthur FC and AFL team the Sydney Swans will be able to enjoy in-person game attendance free of betting advertisements.
The partnership means neither team will accept any sports betting promotion or advertising, and that stadiums will be free of gambling advertising.
Director of the Office of Responsible Gambling, Natalie Wright [centre], and Macarthur FC chairman Gino Marra [right]
Director of the Office of Responsible Gambling, Natalie Wright, said she is excited to see to add two more teams to the initiative.
“We now have four major agreements across three of the most popular codes after starting with cricket. That really speaks to clubs recognising their role in looking after their fans and their communities,” she said.
Chairman of Macarthur FC, Gino Marra, said that as a new club, they wanted to show their support for the Macarthur region and their fanbase.
“As a club, we want to ensure we are looking after the wellbeing of our members, fans, and the wider community. This partnership does just that.
“Our fans have got behind us in this first season, and we are excited to get behind them, too. The club, including our players, coaches, and staff, are passionate about raising awareness on this important topic.”
Natalie Wright and CEO of the Sydney Swans, Tom Harley
Both Macarthur FC and the Swans have committed to education sessions with staff and playing group around gambling advertising, while each club will also raising awareness of the need to Reclaim the Game and be gamble aware on their websites and social media channels.
Players will appear in awareness and educational material, and there will also be Matchday promotions including using stadium signage and the big screen to promote the cause.
Sydney Swans CEO Tom Harley said: “The focus of our partnership is on addressing the normalisation of sports betting and as part of this, Swans matches at the SCG will not feature gambling advertising or sponsorship.
Wright added: “Sport is a big part of our Australian culture, and it should be enjoyed without having to experience gambling advertising as part of a match.”
If you or someone you care about needs support or advice, please call Gambling Help NSW on 1800 858 858 for free and confidential help and support 24/7.
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Zanda Wilson was a reporter and podcast producer at Mumbrella, specialising in radio reporting. He left Mumbrella in September 2021.
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Gino Marra
Macarthur FC
Natalie Wright
NSW Office of Responsible Gambling
Reclaim The Game
Sydney Swans
