Victoria regulator calls for ban on gambling ads

Shirley Pulis Xerxen January 12, 2024

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Victoria regulator calls for ban on gambling ads

The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) in Australia is advocating for a ban on gambling ads after receiving numerous complaints from parents who discovered their children were secretly involved in gambling activities. In a recent report in The Guardian, Annette Kimmitt, the chief executive of VGCCC (in article image), expressed her support for the ban and revealed that parents frequently questioned why such a prohibition had not been implemented.

Speaking to Guardian Australia, Kimmett said,

“When people find out I am the head of the Victorian gambling regulator, I am bombarded with stories from parents of teenagers who have discovered that their children have online wagering accounts.”

Kimmitt stressed that gambling ads can potentially entice even children to engage in gambling, thus contributing to the escalating problem. She eagerly awaits the response of the federal government regarding the inquiry’s recommendations on the issue. Meanwhile, Tim Costello, a prominent advocate for the Alliance for Gambling Reform, emphasized the significance of substantial changes to the gambling sector, dubbing it a “once-in-a-generation chance for reform.” He urged the government to consider the demands of the public and parents, who strongly support a ban on gambling advertisements.

In response to the growing concerns, New South Wales implemented legislation last year that forbids the display of gaming signage in an effort to reduce the influence of gambling ads. The state’s gambling regulator reported a remarkable compliance rate of 99% among venues. Encouraged by this progress, Victoria’s gambling regulator is now calling on the Albanese government to follow suit and implement an ad ban.

The federal government has spent several months evaluating the bipartisan recommendation stemming from a parliamentary inquiry that highlighted the substantial harm caused by gambling. While facing pressure from Labor MPs and consulting various stakeholders such as gambling companies, broadcasters, sporting codes, and tech firms, the government is committed to minimizing harms related to online wagering. A comprehensive response addressing these concerns is expected to be announced in due course.

The campaign for gambling reform in Australia has gained momentum, with support from the regulator, concerned parents, and gambling harm reduction advocates. The federal government is being urged to take decisive action in response to community demands and the regulator’s insights on the matter.

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