Trains, trams and buses in Victoria will soon no longer feature gambling advertisements under a new proposal by the state government, while bookmakers would also be prevented from promoting betting near schools and at train stations.
The Victorian government has begun public consultations and is calling for submissions on proposed restrictions on gambling ads, according to the ABC.
The government’s gaming minister, Marlene Kairouz, said sports betting ads would be banned under the new plan in a number of places, including on public transport and areas frequented by children.
“What we’re wanting to do is ensure they’re no longer exposed to betting advertisements while they go to and from school each day,” she said.
“This is supported by community concerns about the impact of gambling advertising, in particular because it normalises gambling amongst our most vulnerable, including children.
Mr Kairouz said there is absolutely no question that sports betting advertising has become prevalent and more noticeable.
“These reforms are an important first step to limit the community’s exposure to betting advertising, especially in places where people spend a lot of time and find hard to avoid,” she said.
The ABC noted that Ms Kairouz did not provide any detail on possible areas the bans may be introduced or how far away from schools ads would need to be placed.
