Australians favour gambling ad controls over ban, survey finds
According to a, the majority of Australian voters prefer moderate restrictions on gambling advertising rather than a complete ban. Conducted between 30 August and 1 September 2024, the survey gathered responses from 1,550 voters across Australia.
Advertising concerns
When prompted with potential concerns around betting and wagering advertising, a significant portion of respondents (39 percent) expressed worry about children being exposed to such content. Another 26 percent noted concerns for problem gamblers.
However, the survey found that Australian voters are most concerned about the cost of living (67?percent) and housing (39?percent), while problem gambling and betting ranked significantly lower, with only 2?percent?identifying them as a top three issue.
Public opinion favours?restrictions over total ban
Despite growing calls for a total ban on betting and wagering advertising, the survey results indicate that a majority (56 percent) of Australian voters prefer alternatives, such as tighter regulations, over an outright ban (37 percent). This sentiment is even more pronounced among regular bettors, with 52 percent favouring restrictions over a complete ban, while only 31 percent support a full prohibition.
The survey also revealed that more than half of Australian voters (53?percent) were unaware of the ongoing calls to ban gambling advertising.
A call for balanced reform
Kai Cantwell, CEO of Responsible Wagering Australia,, explaining that when presented with balanced, evidence-based alternativessuch as opt-out provisions and age verification measuresthe majority of Australians prefer these over a total ban. Cantwell argued that responsible reforms, designed to protect children and vulnerable Australians, would avoid harming industries like sports, racing, and media while addressing public concerns.
A blanket ban would push Australians toward illegal offshore providers, who operate without regulation, evade taxes, and put consumers at greater risk, Cantwell said. He added that leveraging modern technology, such as ensuring only verified adults see gambling advertisements, could strike a balance between protecting vulnerable groups and maintaining a regulated, responsible gambling environment.
Cantwell warned that excessive regulation could have unintended consequences. International evidence suggests that banning legal advertising often drives consumers toward illegal operators, who engage in predatory practices and undermine efforts to create safer gambling environments. Furthermore, legal providers contribute significant taxes and fees to the Australian economy, supporting essential services like health and education.
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