Live odds TV adverts cut for round one of NRL and AFL seasons
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been chastised by crossbenchers for shelving a plan to more heavily regulate sports betting and cap the volume of ads. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland had prepared a detailed proposal capping at two the number of ads per hour on radio and TV, banning ads around live sport or during match breaks and a total ban for ads on social media.
Confronted with opposition from media companies that own the broadcast rights for the NRL and AFL and sports bosses such as Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter V’landys, Albanese decided last year to put the reforms on ice until after the election.
Sportsbet and other firms will continue to air ads – without live odds – during breaks in play and before and after live matches.
Head of the sport betting peak body Responsible Wagering Australia’s Kai Cantwell, said Sportsbet’s decision was a positive step. Responsible Wagering Australia’s members include every major sports betting company.
“This move shows the industry is serious about reducing advertising exposure for children and vulnerable groups through self-regulation – without relying on blanket bans that could have serious unintended consequences,” he said.
