SHARC Backs Blanket Ban on Gambling Ads to Protect Children and At-Risk Players

The Self Help Addiction Resource Centre (SHARC), an Australian addiction charity, has voiced strong support for a complete ban on gambling advertisements to safeguard vulnerable populations, particularly children and high-risk individuals.

This comes as the Australian government contemplates a diluted version of the sweeping ban recommended in the 2023 Murphy Report.

The proposed regulatory changes would introduce a cap on gambling ads, limiting them to two per hour until 10 p.m., with additional restrictions during live sports broadcasts.

Ads would be prohibited for one hour before and after these events.

Clare Davies, CEO of SHARC, highlighted the severe impact of gambling in Australia, noting that the nation leads the world in gambling losses per capita, with a staggering $25 billion lost annually.

She referenced a report on Australian Gambling Statistics, which indicated that expenditure reached $25.9 billion during the 2018-19 period.

However, Davies emphasized that the consequences of gambling extend beyond financial losses, affecting not only those who gamble but also their families and friends.

Davies expressed particular concern over gambling operators allegedly targeting children through endorsements by sports and media personalities, exacerbating the risk to young viewers.

SHARC's concerns are echoed by a coalition of former Australian politicians, including ex-Prime Ministers John Howard and Malcolm Turnbull.

This group has advocated for a comprehensive ban on gambling advertising, citing a surge in social harms, such as financial ruin, health and mental health issues, domestic violence, family breakdowns, and suicide.

They have urged the government to implement a total ban within three years.

Despite these calls, the government appears hesitant to impose a full ban, citing the potential financial strain on free-to-air media reliant on gambling ad revenue.

Minister Bill Shorten has suggested that the government's response to the Murphy Report should prioritize protecting children, potentially through measures like restricting in-stadium advertising and sponsorships on sports jerseys.

Shadow Minister for Finance and Public Services Jane Hume has echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the Liberal Party's policy of banning ads during sports broadcasts to shield children who watch sports with their parents.

In an effort to balance the financial impact of reduced advertising, the Australian Institute think tank has proposed a 2% levy on operator revenue.

This levy could help offset the loss of advertising income, ensuring that media outlets remain viable while safeguarding vulnerable populations.