Kids still see gambling ads during late night sport under Labor
Labor's draft laws still allow gambling ads during late-night sport breaks, drawing criticism for not going far enough.Summary
The Australian federal government has released new details of its plan to restrict gambling advertising and protect children from its harms. The draft laws would limit television ads to three per hour before 8:30 pm and ban online ads for users under 18. However, gambling ads could still be broadcast during half-time and weather delays after 8:30 pm. Labor Communications Minister Anika Wells argues the changes will "minimise" children's exposure to wagering advertising and "break the link" between sports and gambling. Critics, including Independent Senator David Pocock, have described the reforms as "smoke and mirrors" because they fail to implement a total advertising ban and leave a loophole that allows ads during live games after 8:30 pm. The bill also bans gambling sponsorship on players' uniforms and stadium signage, with existing contracts to be grandfathered. Additionally, banks will be required to stop payments to illegal gambling operators, and internet service providers must block access to illegal gambling services.
(Source：ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation))