ACMA Issues Formal Warning to Network Ten Over Gambling Ad Breach
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has issued a formal warning to Network Ten after finding its streaming service, 10 Play, in violation of gambling advertising rules during two live-streamed sporting events.
Breach of Gambling Ad Restrictions During Live Sports
Network Ten’s streaming platform, 10 Play, was found to have breached Australian gambling advertising regulations by displaying ads during prohibited times on 14 October 2023.
The breach occurred during live streams of the A-League Women’s match between Central Coast Mariners and Newcastle Jets, and a Socceroos friendly match against England.
Under Australian law, gambling advertisements are prohibited during live sports events between 5:00 AM and 8:30 PM, as well as five minutes before and after the event.
ACMA Investigation and Network Ten’s Response
The ACMA launched an investigation after receiving complaints from a viewer about the ads shown during the live streams.
The investigation revealed that the Women’s A-League match, streamed in the afternoon, and the international Socceroos match, streamed early in the morning, both included gambling advertisements during times when restrictions were in place.
Carolyn Lidgerwood, a member of the ACMA, commented on the situation: “These rules are in place to minimize potential harm caused by gambling promotional content. Streaming services are expected to have systems in place to provide their ads in line with the law.”
Lidgerwood also emphasized that this was the first instance of Network Ten breaching the gambling advertising rules and acknowledged the network’s cooperation during the investigation.
Steps Taken to Prevent Future Breaches
Network Ten attributed the breach to an error in manual coding, which allowed the gambling ads to air during restricted periods.
In response, the company has upgraded its advertising processes to introduce more automation in the scheduling of gambling advertisements.
This upgrade aims to prevent future errors and ensure compliance with the law.
Potential for Further Enforcement
The ACMA warned that further enforcement actions could be taken if Network Ten fails to adhere to gambling ad regulations in the future.
The regulatory body remains vigilant in ensuring that all online content providers comply with the restrictions designed to protect viewers from the risks associated with gambling promotions.
ACMA’s Broader Efforts to Combat Illegal Gambling
In related developments, the ACMA has continued its crackdown on illegal gambling services, requesting Australian internet service providers (ISPs) to block four more illegal gambling and affiliate marketing websites.
The latest sites to be blocked include Casino Australia Online, Pokies.bet, Pokiesman, and Smart Pokies, all found to be operating in violation of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.
