Australia Eyes In-Stadium & Sports Jersey Gambling Ad Ban

Australian lawmakers are considering a ban on in-stadium electronic sideline gambling ads amid calls for stricter gambling restrictions. A mulled removal of gambling sponsorship logos from players’ jerseys is also on the table.

New Restrictions Are Being Considered

The new measure comes as calls from Labor backbenchers grow louder, according to a report by ABC, an Australian news outlet. Backers of this measure believe that sideline gambling ads are especially dangerous because of their prominence and visibility.

To make matters worse, this signage is usually associated with high-profile sporting events, such as AFL and NRL games.  

In addition to banning sideline gambling ads, lawmakers are also reportedly considering changes to how jersey sponsorships are regulated. ABC reported that Communications Minister Michelle Rowland is eyeing a potential removal of gambling companies’ logos from the uniforms of professional athletes.

Rowland’s office has so far refused to comment on its plans officially. In any case, the reported measure reflects the crossroads Australia is standing at, divided between the interests of broadcasters and gambling industry stakeholders and the Labor backbench’s intense demands for a ban on gambling ads.

Costello Reiterates Call for Total Ban

Tim Costello, the chief advocate of the Alliance for Gambling Reform, weighed in on the matter. He backed the measure that would remove predatory in-stadium electronic sideline gambling ads, praising the motion.

Costello noted that Rowland’s effort to get signage and jersey ads banned are a step forward and show that she understands the risk of “grooming children.” However, Costello, whose group is calling for a complete ban on gambling ads, added that he does not think Michelle intends to implement the Murphy report.

In his interview with ABC, he said:

I do think Michelle has been really trying to implement the full Murphy report. I suspect the problem is not her, but coming from higher up.

Tim Costello, chief advocate, Alliance for Gambling Reform

The Murphy report refers to a parliamentary inquiry headed by the late Peta Murphy who proposed stricter restrictions that would protect Australians from gambling harm.

Costello concluded that the latest proposal is welcome but insufficient and reiterated his call for a total ban. The chief advocate of the Alliance for Gambling Reform emphasized that an absolute ban would be the only surefire way to protect young Australians from becoming gamblers.