ACMA Finds Two Australian Broadcasting Networks in Violation of Gambling Advertising Rules
ACMA finds two Australian TV networks in violation of gambling advertising rules. Seven Network aired 49 betting promotions during the Olympic coverage in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth. Nine Network broadcast a gambling advert during a rugby league grand final in October 2021. The rules were created to address community concerns regarding viewers’ exposure to betting promotion. Nerida O‘Loughlin, the chair of the regulator, said local people were getting increasingly concerned about the potentially harmful nature of betting adverts.
Australian broadcasters are not allowed to air gambling ads during live sporting events coverage from 5:00 AM to 8:30 PM. After the 8.30 pm watershed, they can show gambling advertising but with some mandatory defined breaks. Channel Seven and Nine Network have entered into court-enforceable undertakings with the commercial and media regulator. They are required to implement certain systems and train their staff. They also need to track the complaints and responses regarding gambling adverts.