Australia: Rabbitohs and Bulldogs Pledge to Curtail Sports Betting Advertising

In a progressive move within the sports industry, the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs have reaffirmed their commitment to reducing sports betting advertising. This comes not long after Cricket Australia was in hot water for their controversial deal with 1xBat. This decision aligns with the New South Wales Government's Reclaim the Game initiative, marking a significant step towards altering the pervasive gambling culture in sports. We always have the latest in Australian and New Zealand gambling news right here in our news blogs.

Renewing Commitments for a Healthier Sporting Environment

The Rabbitohs and Bulldogs have extended their partnerships with the Reclaim the Game initiative, promising to further diminish the presence of sports betting adverts for an additional three years. This continuation is a testament to the success of the past two years, during which both clubs have significantly contributed to shifting perceptions towards sports betting within their communities.

The latest 2023 survey by Reclaim the Game highlights a growing awareness among the clubs' supporters regarding where to seek help for gambling-related issues. Notably, there's been an uptick in awareness of GambleAware services, with about one-third of Rabbitohs and Bulldogs fans now familiar with the available support.

As part of their ongoing commitment, both clubs will eschew betting advertisements at their home games, promoting a family-friendly viewing experience. Additionally, they will leverage their communication platforms to spotlight the Reclaim the Game initiative and educate their communities on the risks associated with gambling.

The Battle Against Betting Ad Saturation

The Reclaim the Game program, initiated by the NSW Government in 2020, has seen considerable growth, now partnering with 11 organizations across five sporting codes. This broad-based support underlines a collective effort to mitigate the impact of sports betting advertising and foster responsible gambling habits among fans.

Alison Parkinson, Director of the Office of Responsible Gambling, underscored the significance of NRL games' widespread appeal and media coverage, highlighting the enhanced risk of gambling harm due to the prevailing betting ads and sponsorships. The Rabbitohs and Bulldogs have been lauded for their pioneering efforts to counter this trend, emphasizing the importance of preserving family-oriented game days.

A Wider Movement Against Gambling Harm

The Rabbitohs and Bulldogs are not alone in their quest. The Reclaim the Game initiative has galvanized a diverse coalition, including teams from the AFL, A-League, cricket, NBL, and NRL, all united in their resolve to confront gambling advertising head-on. This collaborative approach has amplified the message, reaching millions through extensive coverage of over 260 games, both on TV and in stadiums.

Statements from the CEOs of both clubs reflect a shared vision for a sports environment where relentless betting promotions don't overshadow the excitement of the game. Their dedication to this cause indicates a broader industry shift towards prioritizing the welfare and enjoyment of fans over commercial interests.

Moving Towards a Comprehensive Betting Ad Ban?

While current regulations restrict gambling ads during live sports broadcasts in certain time slots, the debate over a more stringent ban continues. With over a million gambling adverts broadcasted in the year leading up to April 2023, the call for a comprehensive prohibition on gambling advertising in Australia is gaining momentum.

Following recommendations from a parliamentary inquiry into online gambling, the potential for a nationwide ban looms. Such measures could redefine the landscape of sports sponsorship and advertising, ushering in a new era of responsible gambling practices and safeguarding the well-being of sports fans nationwide.

Through their sustained partnership with Reclaim the Game, the Rabbitohs and Bulldogs are setting a commendable standard for the sporting community. Their actions reflect a profound commitment to the health and integrity of sports, underscoring the pivotal role of teams and leagues in combating gambling-related harm and promoting a more inclusive and responsible sporting culture.