The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has imposed a warning and fine on broadcaster Seven for violating online gambling advertising regulations. The ACMA investigation discovered that on December 12th at 10.38 am, Seven aired a gambling advertisement during a 7plus live stream of an NFL game. Local broadcasting rules prohibit the broadcasting of gambling ads during live sporting events between 5 am and 8.30 pm. This marks the second breach by the broadcaster, following a similar incident in October 2022 for which they had already been warned. Consequently, the ACMA imposed the maximum fine for this type of violation, amounting to AU$13,320 ($8,663/€8,074).
ACMA Chair Nerida O’Loughlin commented on the breach, expressing concern about the surge in online gambling ads in Australia. Recent data from ACMA revealed that online gambling ads accounted for more than 64% of all advertising spend in the country. Additionally, the data showed that approximately 1 million gambling ads are aired on free-to-air TV annually. Australia currently holds the record for the highest per-person gambling losses globally, with the average gambler losing around AU$1870 ($1200/€1118) each year.
The author of this article is Natasha Lyndon, a former sports journalist based in London. She has extensive experience in working with prominent athletes and brands in the world of sports and iGaming.
