The advertisement of gambling activities in Australia is tightly controlled by a combination of national and local government policies, alongside dedicated regulations for gambling marketing. These laws focus primarily on addressing issues related to gambling addiction during live sports broadcasts.
Taking a Closer Look at the Complex Advertising Laws for Gambling
In Australia, the overarching standards for all kinds of advertising are governed by the Australian Association of National Advertisers (AANA) Code of Ethics. These guidelines cover online advertisements, app-based marketing, social media campaigns, as well as television and radio broadcasts, requiring that marketing materials do not contradict community health and safety standards.
The AANA’s Community Panel ensures compliance with ethical standards. Although they don't monitor advertisement frequency or placement, they do act against ads violating community values, such as those appearing to target minors or vulnerable gamblers.
Besides the AANA's general standards, there's a specialized code known as the Wagering Advertising & Marketing Communication Code. Established in 2016, it serves to uphold social responsibility in gambling advertising.
The Interactive Gambling Act 2001
Beyond industry-set codes, the main nationwide legislation governing gambling advertising in Australia is the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. Under this act, some gambling services provided to Australians may be deemed illegal.
This Act also establishes a framework for filing complaints against companies potentially breaching gambling laws in Australia. Each state and territory maintains its own set of rules and complaint mechanisms for such advertising.
Focused Regulations for Sports Betting Promotions in Australia
Australia's national Broadcast Industry Code strictly prohibits gambling advertisements and odds from being aired before, during, or after live sports. Any attempt to include betting-related content must be explicitly identified. As of 2018, live sporting event broadcasts cannot discuss odds or gambling narratives.
This prohibition applies to all live sports broadcasts between 5:00 a.m. and 8:30 p.m., and also encompasses five minutes before and after the event.
The Broadcast Industry Code oversees all types of broadcasting including Free TV, Subscription Television, and Commercial Radio in Australia. Stations face the risk of losing their licenses for non-compliance.
