Date: 28.01.2025

by Adam Dworak

NSW Implements Public Transport Gambling Ad Ban

New South Wales is set to prohibit gambling advertisements on its public transport, a move aimed at curbing the visibility of these promotions. This action mirrors a similar ban in Victoria and comes amid growing calls for broader gambling reforms.

Australia Bans Credit Card Use for Online Gambling iGamingExpress

Transport Network Ad Restrictions

The ban will apply to all state-owned transport, including trains, buses, ferries, and station facilities. While privately owned assets near transport hubs are not mandated to comply, they will be encouraged to do so voluntarily.

This initiative is a direct response to public concerns, particularly from parents, about the impact of gambling advertising on children.

Transport Minister Jo Haylen stated, “Parents are rightly worried about the impact it has on their kids, so it’s not something that needs to be on our transport network.”

Calls for Comprehensive Gambling Reforms

This announcement follows increasing pressure on the NSW government to implement more extensive reforms within the gambling sector.

The government acknowledges that the current gambling culture in NSW has developed over many years and will not be changed quickly.

Gaming Minister David Harris commented, “We have a culture in NSW that has built up over decades, it is not something that will change overnight.”

Holiday Season Regulatory Enforcement

The ban on gambling ads also coincides with heightened regulatory scrutiny, particularly during the holiday season.

In December 2024, Liquor & Gaming NSW launched a compliance operation focused on preventing underage gambling in casinos.

This operation included strict ID checks and penalties for any violations.

These actions demonstrate the government’s commitment to enforcing existing regulations and protecting vulnerable populations.

Australia’s High Gambling Losses

Australians continue to experience the highest per-capita gambling losses globally, with an estimated AU25 billion (15.6 billion) lost annually.

While the NSW government’s ban on gambling ads is a step forward, critics argue that it must be accompanied by more systemic reforms to address the deeper issues within the industry.