Gambling Ad Complaints Decline in Australia

The Australian National Advertising Association (AANA) saw a decline in grievances concerning gambling promotions in 2020.

AANA figures reveal that merely 0.45 percent of advertising complaints pertained to the AANA’s wagering code of conduct.

This code specifically focuses on advertisements for wagering goods and services provided by Australian licensed operators. It applies to all RWA members and encompasses betting on events such as horse racing, dog racing, and sporting events.

The reduction in complaints is attributed to the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) enforcing limitations on gambling promotions during live sporting events.

A statement in the ACMA’s most recent report declares: “ACMA’s monitoring activities indicate that the government’s policy of shielding children from gambling advertising during live sporting events between 5am and 8:30pm has been effective on broadcast platforms.

“Broadcasters are adhering to the regulations, and there has been a substantial decrease in the number of gambling advertisements from the commencement of pre-game shows to the conclusion of post-game shows.”

Earlier this week, the media regulator determined that television company Foxtel violated broadcasting rules by airing a gambling advertisement during an Australian Rules Football League match.

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