Australia to strengthen gambling ad rules for online streaming services
The Australian Communications and Media Authority is consulting on new rules to restrict gambling advertising during live streamed sport.
‘Until now, rules restricting gambling advertising have applied to broadcasting services only,’ said ACMA Chair, Nerida O’Loughlin.
‘The new online rules will extend community safeguards online, including the banning of gambling ads during live sports streams between 5.00 am and 8.30 pm.’
Recent legislative amendments enable the ACMA to make online content service provider rules.
Enhanced gambling advertising restrictions for broadcasters have been in effect since 30 March 2018. The new online rules will seek to mirror these restrictions as far as possible and will be settled following consultation.
‘The proposed rules will bring together a “safe zone” across traditional and new media platforms, with a particular focus on when children are a part of the audience. They will make it clear to viewers, including parents, when gambling advertising is prohibited and extend other important restrictions into the online environment,’ said Ms O’Loughlin.
‘The ACMA strongly encourages stakeholder submissions and reminds potentially affected online content service providers to prepare for implementation of the new rules,’ Ms O’Loughlin added.