Bad news for bookmakers in Australia as the government's decision to ban ads during in play events that take place before 8:30 p.m., is sure to limit their marketing reach.
This had been a topic of debate for quite a few months and will lead to gambling operators either immediately complying, or exiting the market.
According to the ban, land based and online bookmakers will not be able to air their commercials 5 minutes before the start and 5 minutes after the end of any sports event. Strangely enough, this does not apply to any events that start after 8:30 p.m., or to horse, dog and harness racing.
Independent MP Andrew Wilkie recently stated at the Sydney Morning Herald: "We know that children are especially susceptible to advertising and hero worship and that gambling advertising has a real and measurable impact on the children who are subjected to it."
Although Australian bookmakers have sounded their protests towards the gambling ad ban, it seems unlikely that they will appeal against the decision.
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