Betting ad complaints in Australia decline in 2020

According to data from the AANA, only 0.45% of ad complaints were directed at AANA’s wagering code of conduct.

The wagering code specifically applies to the advertising of betting products and services provided by licensed operators in Australia. It applies to all RWA members, and covers betting on events such as horse racing, greyhound racing, and sporting events.

The decline in complaints is attributed to restrictions on gambling advertising during live sporting events, introduced by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA).

A statement from ACMA’s latest report said: “ACMA monitoring activities indicate that the government’s policy to protect children from gambling ads in live sport between 5am and 8.30pm has been effective on broadcasting platform.

“Broadcasters are following the rules, with a marked decrease in the volume of gambling ads from the start of pre-game shows to the end of post-game shows.”

Earlier this week, the media regulator found TV company Foxtel to have breached broadcasting rules over an Australian Football League gambling ad.