Key Moments:
- A proposed ban would prohibit gambling advertisements and sponsorships in all state-owned or funded venues in Tasmania.
- Polling data referenced by lawmakers shows that 75% of Australians support a full ban on gambling advertising.
- The measure outlines a 12-month rollout and requires a six-month compliance progress report to parliament.
Comprehensive Statewide Marketing Restrictions Proposed
Independent MPs Meg Webb and Kristie Johnston lead the plan, which aims to reduce betting ad exposure—especially among young people.
Furthermore, the proposal stands out for its scope and could become one of Australia’s toughest gambling ad restrictions.The proposed ban includes physical signage, digital ads, branded uniforms, and media inventory at any location overseen or funded by the state. The rules would also cover future venues, including the Macquarie Point Stadium, ensuring long-term enforcement.
Driven by Local Leadership and Public Demand
The proposal takes inspiration from recommendations made in the 2023 federal parliamentary inquiry into online gambling, recommendations that have yet to be adopted nationwide. Consequently, Webb and Johnston are positioning Tasmania to act independently while federal reforms lag, highlighting the potential for local change.
The motion outlines a clear 12-month rollout plan for implementation. Additionally, the government must deliver a progress report to parliament after six months to assess compliance and enforcement developments.
Community Backing Fuels Political Action
Similarly, research cited in the proposal shows 75% of Australians support a full gambling ad ban, while 81% back limits on online ads. A separate survey from 2022 regarding Australian Football League spectators observed that 79% of respondents support removing gambling advertisements from stadiums.
Webb and Johnston believe this broad-based support offers the momentum needed for reform, potentially positioning Tasmania as a leader for others to emulate.
Public Health at the Forefront
Endorsements have emerged from advocacy groups such as the Alliance for Gambling Reform, describing the measure as a critical step for public health. Mark Kempster, a spokesperson for the organization, stated that repeated exposure to gambling promotions, especially among minors, has made betting seem inherently tied to sporting activities. “He added that removing logos and sponsorships from state-backed venues and events would help de-normalise gambling culture and limit youth exposure.”
Operational and Commercial Considerations
The suggested regulations carry significant operational implications. Adoption would force organizers, operators, and sports bodies to renegotiate contracts with betting companies. New compliance measures, revised sponsorship policies for uniforms, and updated media rights contracts would be required for enforcement.
Webb and Johnston maintain that because such assets are publicly owned, the government has the right to define the terms for their use. The reform, they claim, is pragmatic and necessary, prioritizing prevention over blanket prohibition.
Potential National Impact as Debate Approaches
With a parliamentary debate slated for December, observers are watching to see whether Tasmania’s parliament will advance this motion. Campaigners are highlighting this discussion as a critical moment that could influence other Australian jurisdictions.
Although national gambling reform remains uncertain, Tasmania’s move has drawn attention to state-led change. The outcome may provide a roadmap for how responsible gambling promotion is defined and regulated in Australia.
| Polling Data | Support Level |
|---|---|
| Total ban on gambling advertising (national) | 75% |
| Restrictions on online betting promotions | 81% |
| Removal of ads from stadiums (AFL fans, 2022 survey) | 79% |
- Author
Daniel Williams
