Australia’s proposed gambling ad reforms face criticism over streaming service exemption
Reform advocates and lawmakers argue that the proposed legislation weakens existing restrictions.
Australia.- The proposed new rules for gambling advertising in Australia ar facing fresh criticism over claims that streaming services would be subject to looser rules than traditional television broadcasts. A provision would allow registered adult users of streaming platforms to receive unlimited gambling advertisements during breaks in live sports events, provided the service offers an option to opt out of such ads.
The exemption has drawn criticism from gambling reform advocates, who argue that it represents a step backwards as audiences shift from broadcast television to digital platforms. Several MPs have questioned the decision to remove the current advertising blackout for streaming services, suggesting that amendments should align streaming platforms with the same restrictions applied to free-to-air television.
Tim Costello, one of Australia’s leading campaigners for gambling reform, said the proposal fails to adequately protect viewers and called for either an outright ban on gambling ads on streaming services or an opt-in system requiring users to actively choose to receive them.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Communications Minister Anika Wells have defended the government’s proposal, arguing that mandatory user registration, age verification and an advertising opt-out mechanism provide stronger safeguards, particularly for children.
The gambling advertising bill is to undergo a Senate inquiry expected to last until at least mid-August.
