Australia’s Coalition for Major Professional and Participation Sports has thrown its support behind an appeal to loosen gambling ad restrictions during live daytime sports telecasts.
Under Australia’s current ad ban, television and radio stations are prohibited from airing gambling promotions during “all live sports broadcasts” between 5:00am and 8:30pm. The ban was passed to help reduce children’s exposure to betting ads.
The coalition, however, is warning of a possible dip in sports revenues since wagering companies have been major contributors to the industry. The ban diminishes the value of media rights, according to the sports group.
Changes to the ban have also been sought by Free TV Australia, Commercial Radio Australia and the Australian Subscription Television and Radio Association.
The online bookmakers-backed lobby group Responsible Wagering Australia expressed concerns that the exemptions would exclude lottery companies like Lottoland from the ban. RWA added that broadcasters would be able to mention gambling operators in sponsorship statements should the exemptions be granted.
In another story, a legislatively required report on the impact of gambling on communities has been filed in the Australian state of Tasmania. Media reports initially said the required three-year report was not submitted on schedule, but officials later confirmed that it has been filed, but has yet to be reviewed.
