The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) government has launched a public consultation on proposed gambling advertising restrictions.
The consultation offers two options that are specifically focused on child and youth protection, with the proposed restrictions being introduced in response to research which found that more than 90 per cent of children between aged 8-16 could remember seeing a sports betting promotion.
The study also found that nearly half of this age group have engaged in some form of gambling.
The consultation runs until 6 September 2024, with the public encouraged to share their thoughts via the YourSay website.
The first proposal would prohibit gambling advertising on radio between 6am and 8:30am, and on TV between 4:00pm and 7:30pm, Monday to Friday, with the only exception being dedicated sports channels.
The second option would extend the TV advertising restriction to include 06:00am to 8:30pm on weekends, except on dedicated sports channels.
The ACT government is also open to receiving suggestions for other potential gambling advertising restrictions, including those related to subscription TV and online platforms.
Shane Rattenbury, Minister for Gaming in the ACT government, said that young people are exposed to more gambling advertising than ever before and are inundated with gambling messages every day.
“Exposure to gambling advertising can lead young people to view it as a positive activity, putting them on a path to developing harmful habits in the future,” said Minister Rattenbury.
“Canberrans of all ages love sport, but it’s a passion that has been undermined by gambling agencies targeting some of the most vulnerable fans and spectators.
“It’s important for kids to enjoy the match, not the ‘multi’, and we are committed to protecting our young people and creating a safer, healthier environment.”