The debate over banning gambling advertisements in Australia has reached a fever pitch, with politicians, media companies, and advocacy groups all weighing in. The government is under increasing pressure to implement a total ban on gambling ads, following recommendations from a bipartisan committee and growing public concern over the social and economic impacts of gambling.
Key Takeaways
- Bipartisan Support: Both Labor and Coalition MPs are pushing for a total ban on gambling ads.
- Economic Concerns: Media companies and sporting bodies fear significant revenue loss.
- Public Health: Advocates compare the issue to tobacco advertising, citing public health risks.
- Government Stance: The government is considering a partial ban, but faces backlash from various quarters.
Bipartisan Push for Total Ban
Labor and Coalition MPs have united in their call for a comprehensive ban on gambling advertising. They argue that a partial ban would not be effective in curbing the social and economic damage caused by gambling. The late Labor MP Peta Murphy had led a committee that recommended a total ban, and many of her colleagues believe the government should honour her legacy.
Labor MP Mike Freelander likened the gambling industry to tobacco, stating that it transfers billions of dollars from poor to wealthy individuals. Other MPs, including Victorian Labor MP Maria Vamvakinou and Nationals MP Pat Conaghan, have also voiced their support for a total ban.
Media and Sporting Bodies’ Concerns
Free-to-air TV and major sporting bodies are worried about the financial implications of a total ban on gambling ads. The commercial TV sector has seen a significant decline in ad revenue, and gambling ads have become a crucial source of income. According to data, almost $240 million was spent on gambling ads on free-to-air television, metro radio, and online between May 2022 and April 2023.
Anna Potter, a professor of digital media and cultural studies, argues that the issue is not just about gambling companies but the broader ecosystem dependent on gambling revenue. She points out that free-to-air TV’s share of ad revenue has drastically decreased over the years, making them reliant on gambling ads.
Public Health and Advocacy
Advocates for a total ban compare the issue to the fight against tobacco advertising. Former Prime Minister John Howard and other prominent Australians have called for a blanket ban, urging the government to show leadership similar to the tobacco ad ban in the 1970s. They argue that the prevalence of gambling ads, especially during sports events, poses a significant risk to young people.
Tim Costello, chief advocate for the Alliance for Gambling Reform, criticises media owners for stalling reforms. He argues that the government should find sustainable and ethical ways to fund sports and other public services without relying on gambling revenue.
Government’s Position
The government, led by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, is considering a partial ban on gambling ads. The draft plan suggests capping the number of ads on TV and banning them an hour before and after live sports. However, this proposal has faced criticism from both sides of the political spectrum and advocacy groups.
Communications Minister Michelle Rowland has been consulting with various stakeholders, including media companies and sporting bodies. Despite the pressure, the government has yet to commit to a total ban, leaving the future of gambling advertising in Australia uncertain.
Conclusion
The debate over gambling ad bans in Australia is far from over. With bipartisan support for a total ban and significant opposition from media and sporting bodies, the government faces a challenging decision. The outcome will have far-reaching implications for public health, the media industry, and the broader community.
Sources
- If all bet ads are off, give us a break: Free TV | The Advocate | Burnie, TAS, The Advocate | Burnie, TAS.
- The commercial broadcasters stalling gambling advertising reforms | The Saturday Paper, The Saturday Paper.
- Gambling ad ‘total ban’ only way forward: Labor MPs, The Sydney Morning Herald.
- If all bet ads are off, give us a break: Free TV | The Border Mail | Wodonga, VIC, The Border Mail.
- John Howard, Dominic Perrottet, Jeff Kennett, Malcolm Turnbull back ban on gambling ads, The Sydney Morning Herald.