Want to block gambling ads? Soon, this is how you will do it
The government is moving to make opting out of gambling ads online as easy as paying a bill. Here is what we know about how it might work.
The Australian government is working on legislation to make it easier for people to avoid seeing gambling advertisements online. This is part of a deal with the Coalition to pass gambling ad reform through parliament. The legislation would include changes to how gambling companies can attract bettors, an ad blackout before and after live sports events, and a system allowing individuals to opt-out of gambling ads.
The opt-out mechanism is expected to be complex to develop and implement. Families and individuals would be able to choose not to see gambling ads when they log in online. However, critics argue the proposed reform doesn't go far enough to address real gambling harm, as many recommendations from the government's 2023 "You Win Some, You Lose More" report are not being adopted.
The Greens have even suggested the gambling overhaul is intentionally complicated and doubt the communications watchdog's ability to manage the opt-out register. It's not clear yet how the register would work, but it's hoped online platforms will stop showing ads to those on the register. The government has introduced a "triple-lock" mechanism, which would require social media and streaming companies to block gambling ads for those under 18, and give adults the option to opt out. This is seen as overly burdensome by some, with some advocating for an opt-in mechanism instead.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
