The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has approved new rules restricting gambling advertising during live sport streamed online.

The Broadcasting Services (Online Content Service Provider Rules) 2018 prohibit gambling advertising during live sport that is streamed online between 5am and 8:30pm. At all other times, gambling advertising is also restricted.

The ACMA developed the rules in line with the federal government’s policy of stronger restrictions on gambling advertising during live sport. Associated enabling legislation came into effect on 12 April 2018.

You can learn more about the new rules here.

Nerida O’Loughlin, chair of the ACMA, said: “This is the first time that online services streaming live sport have been required to comply with gambling advertising restrictions.”

“This brings online services in line with television and radio broadcasting services. It creates a safe zone for children and families to watch live sport across a variety of platforms.”

In developing the new regulatory safeguards, the ACMA conducted two rounds of consultation. The ACMA made changes to previous draft rules based on feedback and comments from stakeholders.

The new rules will come into effect on 28 September 2018. The ACMA will closely monitor operation of the new rules and, after 12 months, will consider whether to conduct a formal review of their effectiveness.

They follow Free TV’s gambling advertising code of practice, which came into effect in March.