Network Ten Breached Gambling Ad Rules During F1 Grand Prix
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) found that Network Ten (Sydney) violated gambling ad restrictions during the 2024 Australia Formula 1 Grand Prix. The network aired four gambling ads during the event’s first practice round, breaching the Australian Commercial TV Code of Practice.
Breaches of Advertising Regulations
Under the Australian Commercial TV Code of Practice, gambling advertisements cannot be aired during sports broadcasts between 5:00 AM and 8:30 PM. Additionally, ads promoting gambling must not be shown within five minutes of an event’s start or finish. ACMA’s investigation determined that Network Ten failed to adhere to these rules, leading to multiple infractions during the live coverage of the Grand Prix.
Despite the breaches, ACMA has not yet imposed any penalties or enforcement actions against the network. This marks the first recorded violation of gambling advertising laws by Network Ten, which has attributed the issue to human error. However, regulatory scrutiny remains, with ACMA emphasizing the importance of adherence to advertising restrictions.
ACMA’s Response and Future Monitoring
Following the findings, ACMA member Carolyn Lidgerwood underscored the significance of gambling ad regulations in mitigating potential harms associated with gambling exposure:
“The rules around gambling advertisements on TV are there to protect the community from gambling-related harms. Broadcasters should have strict controls in place to ensure compliance with the restrictions on gambling ads during sporting events. The ACMA will closely monitor these actions and Network Ten’s compliance with the broadcasting and online gambling advertising rules.”