Tasmania Moves To Strip Gambling Ads
Two Tasmanian lawmakers have introduced a motion to stop all gambling-related advertising and sponsorship at venues owned or funded by the state. They argue that such advertising normalises gambling among young people and that the state should act where the federal government has not.
Threat to Young People’s Exposure
Meg Webb and Kristie Johnston aim to remove gambling branding from uniforms, venue signage and stadium campaigns, including at the planned Macquarie Point stadium. They cite research from the Australian Gambling Research Centre showing that people aged 18 to 24 face almost double the high-risk gambling rate compared to older groups. Many young fans see gambling logos every time they watch sport, both live and on broadcast. Schools and health groups warn that this creates a strong link between betting and enjoyment of the game.
Meg Webb said:
“Gambling companies know, just as tobacco companies did, that hooking people young creates a customer pipeline for life.”
The motion warns that frequent gambling ads in sports environments normalise betting. Public opinion supports the idea, with 75% of Australians wanting a full ban on gambling ads and 81% backing a ban online. The proposal sets a 12-month transition and asks for a progress update after six months. Webb believes limiting marketing in sport will help break links between fandom and betting. Advocacy groups say the change could reduce the pressure on people who already struggle with gambling.
State-Owned Venues As First Step
A 2023 federal inquiry recommended a nationwide ban on in-stadia gambling advertising, but the government has not acted on it yet. Webb and Johnston argue that Tasmania does not need to wait for national legislation to move forward. The motion would apply to any venue that receives state money, ensuring a wide scope across the region. That includes major sports arenas and smaller community facilities.
Meg Webb added:
“The Australian government has failed to act despite a federal parliamentary inquiry recommending a ban on all in-stadia advertising. Tasmania must now show leadership by implementing that ban where it can, such as at all state owned or funded venues.”
Supporters say state venues offer a clear starting point for consumer protection. They also point to more than AUD 190 million lost each year on poker machines in Tasmania. Lawmakers plan to debate the motion in December. The reform could influence other states considering similar limits. Webb believes Tasmania can show that stronger safeguards are possible without hurting sporting activity.
