United States
United Kingdom
Summary:
- A parliamentary inquiry into online gambling has released its report with 31 recommendations
- They include a crackdown on illegal online gambling sites and a blanket ban on gambling ads
- The online gambling advertising ban must be implemented in phases within three years
Australia could become the next country to implement a blanket ban on online gambling advertising as the government places its focus on protecting the vulnerable and preventing gambling harms.
The measure, which is one of the key recommendations of a parliamentary inquiry into online gambling, has received strong backing from the ruling Labor Party.
The inquiry’s findings were released this week in the report, “You win some, you lose some” which contains 31 recommendations, including an outright ban on online gambling ads which must be enforced within three years. The report also called on the government to intensify its crackdown on illegal gambling websites and enhance player safeguards.
Combating Illegal Online Gambling Operators
Under Australia’s Interactive Gambling Act, gambling providers are prohibited from offering real-money online gaming services to Australians.
In recent years, the government has seen an increasing number of illegal gambling sites targeting domestic players. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has taken steps to address this problem, ordering Australian internet service providers to block unlicensed sites which are mainly based offshore. As of April this year, more than 700 illegal gambling and affiliate sites have been blocked.
The parliamentary inquiry recommends that the government ramp up its crackdown on illegal gambling websites and put in place stronger customer protections for the regulated market. Additionally, licensed operators must conduct adequate verification checks on players before allowing them to gamble.
Phased Implementation of Online Gambling Advertising Ban
The ban on online gambling ads will be implemented in phases to give gambling firms and broadcasters time to seek alternative advertisers and sponsors. The main aim of the measure is to prevent another generation from experiencing escalating gambling harm, according to Labor MP Peta Murphy, Chair of the Legal Affairs Committee.
The ban’s implementation will involve four phases. First, gambling operators will be prohibited from offering inducements and promoting their services on social media and other online platforms.
Gambling ads will then be banned during sports broadcasts such as The Ashes, with additional restrictions set to be introduced regarding advertising on uniforms and in stadiums. This will progress to a ban on broadcast ads between 6:00 am and 10:00 pm, and then culminate in a total ban of online gambling ads and gambling sponsorships.
A ban on online gambling ads has been the main talking point within the government since the parliamentary inquiry was launched in September of last year, with the measure receiving cross-party support. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland said the government will now consider the recommendations in full and will consult with key stakeholders before putting forward gambling reform proposals.
