Recent research conducted by Freshwater Strategy has highlighted that a majority of Australians lean towards implementing moderate restrictions on gambling advertisements rather than enforcing a total ban. The survey, which involved 1,550 participants, revealed that 56% of respondents favour sensible, evidence-based limitations on gambling ads, whereas 37% advocate for a complete prohibition.
Public Concerns: Children and Vulnerable Groups
Australians' main concerns about gambling advertisements center on minimizing exposure to children and protecting vulnerable demographics. Approximately 37% of the survey participants emphasized the need to shield children, while 26% focused on safeguarding vulnerable Australians from potentially harmful gambling advertising.
This sentiment is consistent with earlier findings from an Australian Financial Review (AFR) Freshwater Poll, which found that 70% of voters preferred regulating the frequency and timing of gambling ads on television over an outright ban.
The Push for a Ban Versus Sensible Regulations
The call for stricter controls on gambling ads has intensified recently. Over 60 notable Australians, including former prime ministers and sports personalities, have advocated for a total ban within the next three years, following the Murphy Report's 31 recommendations to limit the influence of such ads on susceptible groups.
In contrast, Kai Cantwell, CEO of Responsible Wagering Australia, argues that outright bans may lead to unintended consequences. Cantwell suggests that when people are presented with all-or-nothing choices, they tend to favour total bans. However, when offered practical, responsible gaming alternatives like opt-out provisions and age-verification measures, most prefer these options.
Concerns Over Unregulated Gambling
Cantwell warns that banning online gambling advertisements won't stop Australians from gambling but might drive them towards illegal offshore providers. These unregulated entities often entice customers with significant casino bonuses and lack adequate consumer protections. He stresses that over-regulation could inadvertently create a market void that these illegal operators would fill, using predatory advertising tactics that especially target vulnerable populations.
Furthermore, Cantwell points out the economic impact of unregulated gambling. Illegal operators evade taxes and fees, costing the Australian economy billions each year. This lost revenue could otherwise support essential public services like healthcare, education, and community infrastructure.
Balancing Protection and Economic Contribution
As discussions continue, the Australian Government faces the challenge of balancing the need to protect vulnerable citizens with the benefits of maintaining a legal, regulated gambling industry that contributes significantly to the national economy. The debate is set to influence policy decisions shaping the landscape of gambling advertising in Australia, aiming to find a middle ground that addresses public concerns while preventing the rise of unregulated gambling markets.
