The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has issued a formal warning to Network Ten, as its streaming service 10 Play was found to have breached gambling advertising regulations during two live sports events on October 14, 2023.
The violations occurred during the Australian Women's Super League soccer match between Central Coast Mariners and Newcastle Jets, as well as the friendly match between the Australian national team and England.
According to the Australian Sports and Entertainment Authority, 10 Play aired gambling advertisements during these events beyond the legally permitted times. Australian regulations stipulate that online content providers must not broadcast gambling advertisements during live sports broadcasts between 5:00 AM and 8:30 PM, including five minutes before and after the event.
The ACMA investigation was initiated following viewer complaints, confirming that these ads were broadcast during times when such promotional activities are prohibited. Network Ten attributed the breach to errors in their manual coding process and stated that they have upgraded their systems to incorporate more automated processes for scheduling advertisements.
This incident marks the first time Network Ten has violated gambling advertising regulations during a live sports broadcast. ACMA noted Network Ten's cooperation in the investigation but emphasized the importance of adhering to these regulations to minimize potential harms associated with gambling advertisements.
ACMA has been actively involved in monitoring and regulating content related to gambling, including blocking illegal offshore gambling services and affiliate marketing websites that violate the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. Since 2019, ACMA has blocked over 1,026 illegal websites and continues to take action against entities that violate Australian regulations.
In addition to enforcement activities, ACMA also conducts consumer awareness campaigns, such as promoting the ban on using credit cards for gambling services proposed by Responsible Wagering Australia. The Alliance for Gambling Reforms has consistently called for further restrictions on gambling advertisements, particularly those targeting young audiences.
