AWC allays fears over sports betting advertisements
The Australian Wagering Council (AWC) has moved to ease concerns over the advertising of sports betting in the country.
The pledge comes in response to calls from independent MP Andrew Wilke and Senator Nick Xenophon for Australia to adopt a national approach on gambling advertisements.
Both individuals have put forward a series of demands for reform, including the outlawing of sports betting adverts during G-rated timeslots
The demands come just two weeks after the launch of the Australian Association of National Advertisers (AANA) Marketing Communications Code, which aims to prevent gambling adverts from targeting children and discourages drinking alcohol when betting.
Ian Fletcher, chief executive of the AWC, said: “Advertising isn’t all bad: in a globally competitive market, it informs consumers of the identity of licensed Australian-based wagering service providers where they can participate in wagering in a well-regulated environment, avoiding the significant dangers which exist from wagering with illegal offshore operators.
“The position of AWC members on wagering advertising continues to evolve in response to community views.
“AWC members have listened to the concerns raised by the community and have told the government they want to engage to get acceptable advertising regulation in place.
“That’s why they applaud the development by the AANA of a Wagering and Advertising Marketing Communications Code, which came into force on July 1, and sets new rules on the content of wagering advertising.
“That’s why they ensure strict compliance with all state and territory laws and regulations on advertising and broadcast and advertising industry Codes of Practice, including specific rules prohibiting advertising to minors and the siren-to-siren ban on live odds during live sports broadcasts and the ban on gambling advertising during live play in sports broadcasts.
“And, that’s why they acknowledge community concerns around the volume and placement of wagering advertising and want to open discussion on how best to address these concerns.
“That discussion needs to involve sports and racing bodies, broadcasters, and governments. Everyone shares some of the responsibility.”
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