Australia Unveils Major Crackdown on Gambling Advertising
Expertise: US Gaming, European Gaming Industry, iGaming
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The measures aim to reduce exposure to betting marketing, particularly among children and vulnerable players, marking one of the most significant policy shifts in recent years.
Speaking at the National Press Club, Albanese said the government would impose a comprehensive package of controls designed to reduce exposure to betting marketing, particularly for children and problem gamblers. Key elements include limits on television advertising to no more than three gambling ads per hour between 6:00am and 8:30pm, a ban on radio spots during school drop-off and pick-up periods, a prohibition on celebrity and athlete endorsements, and a ban on advertising inside sports venues and on the uniforms of players and officials.
Online advertising will be restricted to logged-in users verified as over 18, with an opt-out option for consumers. The government also said it will intensify action against illegal offshore betting operators and block online products that mimic electronic gaming machines, such as certain Keno-style offerings and apps that replicate poker machines.
Related: Australia Would Ban Gambling Ads After Cross-Party Vote, MP Says
Industry Reaction and What Happens Next
RELATED TOPICS: Regulation
