Government permits gambling ads on streaming services during live sports

The government will permit streaming services to show gambling advertisements during live sport streamed online, replacing a current blackout period that runs from 5am to 8.30pm. Under the new rules, platforms may display the ads at half-time and quarter-time breaks unless registered adult users choose to opt out.

The changes form part of a broader gambling advertising package that also bans newer online keno and offshore lottery advertising and addresses influencer promotions. Rules for traditional television remain in place, though the blackout start time has moved to 6am.

Concerns from within government ranks One Labor MP said the decision to remove the streaming blackout requires further examination. Several other Labor MPs described the package as an initial step that could be strengthened during Senate negotiations.

The Greens have called for tighter measures. The Coalition is reviewing its position ahead of a Senate inquiry scheduled for the winter break. Two Liberal backbenchers are urging the opposition to adopt a stricter stance.

Reform advocate response Tim Costello, chief advocate of the Gambling Reform Alliance, said the streaming provisions remove existing protections and will benefit foreign sports betting companies. He described the changes as worse than the prior state of non-action and called for either a full ban or an opt-in system for the ads.

Costello also said the current blackout for streamed sport should be reinstated to avoid different rules applying to the same game on different platforms. Government officials have stated that the package is stronger than current settings because it requires a clear opt-out option for users.