NSW is to become the first state in Australia to ban radio and television advertising during sporting matches that promote live-odds betting in an effort to reduce the harms of problem gambling.
The ban, announced today by Acting Premier and Minister for Justice Troy Grant, comes into effect from 1 March 2016 and will prevent live-odds gambling advertising during sporting events less than four hours long. A maximum penalty of $5,500 will be applied for a breach.
“There is no doubt the sports betting market is becoming increasingly competitive as operators aggressively chase market share through promotions, so it’s important that regulation moves with the industry,” Grant said. “NSW is pioneering this new measure to ensure its regulatory environment does everything it can to promote a culture of responsible gambling and draw a clear line about what is acceptable and what is not.
“I thank Reverend the Hon. Fred Nile MLC for his ongoing advocacy to limit problem gambling in NSW,” he concluded.
An expansion of a current ban on advertising inducements to gamble that offered a “credit, voucher, or reward” will be expanded to include all advertising inducements.
The changes will not affect online live betting, which is currently under review by the government.