After a five month Inquiry into the Advertising and Promotion of Gambling in Sport, the Joint Select Committee on Gambling Reform has reported early. The major recommendations contained in the 78 page document are:

In relation to sports betting promotion

  • A governmental review of the gambling industry's self regulation regarding the promotion of gambling products to an audience which includes children and legislative intervention if the industry does not make appropriate changes.
  • A governmental review (including public consultation) of the current exemption of gambling advertising for sporting programs.
  • Further research be undertaken in relation to the long term effects of gambling advertising on children, and in particular, the normalisation of gambling during televised sport.
  • Nationally consistent responsible gambling messages be agreed to work as effectively as possible as harm minimisation measures.
  • A review (including public consultation) of the amount of betting promotion at sporting venues (including on uniforms) to ensure that it is appropriate for what is marketed as a family friendly environment.
  • A review the availability of merchandise to children featuring sports betting logos or names.
  • Further research be undertaken in relation to the effect of mobile phone applications on problem gambling (including what are the most effective harm minimisation features and how these can be best incorporated).

In relation to sports integrity

  • The development of appropriate tools and resources for amateur sport to increase participants' awareness of the risks and threats posed gambling on amateur sporting events.

In light of the intense media and social commentary surrounding gambling advertising it is not surprising that the report favoured movement from the status quo. However there were dissenters who felt that the report and recommendations did not go far enough. A detailed analysis of the report and what it may mean to the gambling industry will follow shortly.

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