NRL’s Rabbitohs and Bulldogs Reiterate Stance on Gambling Ads

The New South Wales government announced that the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs have extended their partnerships with the Reclaim the Game initiative. As a result, the clubs will continue to promote safer gambling while maintaining a firm stance against betting advertising.

Under the agreement, both teams will refrain from displaying betting ads at their home games and will promote Reclaim the Game through their communication channels. The two National Rugby League teams will continue to educate players, staff and fans about the risks of excessive gambling.

For fans, the extended partnerships mean fewer betting ads and more focus on the sport. For reference, the teams’ agreements with the Reclaim the Game initiative have been extended by three years.

The two teams are set to face off on March 29 at Accor Stadium Homebush.

The official 2023 Reclaim the Game survey confirmed that supporters of the Rabbitohs and Bulldogs are now much more aware of the safer tools and problem gambling services available to them. Many more fans are aware of GambleAware’s services, the survey shows, confirming the initiative’s efficiency.

The Program Is a Resounding Success

The Reclaim the Game program was launched in 2020 and has proven to be a huge success. The program now boasts 11 partners across five codes, including the AFL, A-League, cricket, NBL and NRL. Since its launch, the initiative has reached millions of fans, teaching them the importance of responsible play.

Alison Parkinson, director of the Office of Responsible Gambling, pointed out that since NRL games draw huge crowds and receive significant coverage, the league’s betting sponsorships reach millions of fans, increasing the risk of harm. She praised the Rabbitohs and Bulldogs for their decision to forgo ads during their home games, providing a family-friendly experience to their fans.

Family traditions often shape support for a club, and attitudes towards gambling can also be passed down through generations. We are pleased to see the Rabbitohs’ and the Bulldogs’ commitment to addressing this issue, highlighting the potential harms that gambling can cause individuals, families and society.

Alison Parkinson, director, Office of Responsible Gambling

Representatives of the teams also shared their thoughts. Blake Solly, CEO of the South Sydney Rabbitohs, said that the club is thrilled to extend this partnership and praised Reclaim the Game’s values, which align with those of the Rabbitohs.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs CEO Aaron Warburton added that his team is very proud to be part of the Reclaim the Game initiative and say no to betting advertising.