Shane Rattenbury, ACT attorney general, has confirmed that if the federal government fails to make a decision regarding gambling ads in sports then the territory could be forced to take action on its own to address the ads Rattenbury described as “pernicious” or “insidious.”
Gambling Ads are in ACT’s Hair
These comments are made against the backdrop of wider opposition to gambling ads in sports. The Australian Football League (AFL ) recently acknowledged that ads might need to be reduced.
According to the Guardian, there is a growing chorus of politicians in the Territory, including Monique Ryan and Rebekha sharkie. They support the ban on gambling ads and the passage of laws that limit its use in sports at today’s rates. The Australian public supports a ban on all gambling ads.
Rattenbury stated that the ideal scenario would be one where the ACT government steps up and acts. Rattenbury stated that the ACT is ready to explore its options if the central government fails to act.
It is possible to impose such unilateral restrictions state-by-state. Rattenbury cited South Australia’s restrictions regarding gambling advertising on television. It was approved in 2013, and has been in operation ever since. The system effectively imposes a ban on gambling advertising from 4pm to 7:30 pm.
Although this isn’t an ideal place for ads to not be shown on television, it is a good starting point towards more extensive measures. Rattenbury already has a plan in place. Rattenbury argues that TV and radio should be targeted to prevent advertisement shifting from one medium to the other. However, the ACT has little to no ability to combat digital advertising.
Gambling Ads are Having Their Last Hurrah
This is all against a continuing debate about Australian gambling ads. Gillon McLachlan (the outgoing AFL boss) stated last week that too much gambling is being promoted during games. He’s changing his mind from the previous position where the AFL kept a low profile on the subject while clubs started to opt out of gambling partnerships.
Fans also expect the AFL’s best. According to the AFL Fans Association, 76% of the 3,000 people who were interviewed for a study said they would like to see gambling ads on television and TV banned. Another 79% said they would not mind a ban on stadium promotions.
It is clear that top sports organizations have been heavily dependent on gambling revenue. This may make it more difficult for them to get out of this situation in the future. Some argue and fear. Despite the fact that sports bodies have been reluctant to take action by themselves, the ACT has some response.
