Former CEO of Australia's Tabcorp, Elmer Funke Kupper, recently publicly urged the Albanian government to legislate stricter controls on gambling advertising, warning that current advertising exposure is harming the younger generation. According to the latest data from the Australian National University, 19.4% of adults are currently involved in high-risk gambling, reaching the highest level in six years, with over 600,000 adolescents aged 12-17 participating in gambling. Kupper suggested an immediate ban on gambling advertisements in sports venues, on team jerseys, and one hour before the broadcast of events, while the government responded that it is widely soliciting opinions, emphasizing that this process is complex but important.
Former CEO's Call and Background
Elmer Funke Kupper, former CEO of Tabcorp, made an appeal to the government through the "Australian Financial Review," demanding stricter legislative control over gambling advertisements. Kupper described strengthening advertising regulation as "one of the simplest leadership initiatives," emphasizing its critical importance in protecting the younger generation.
As a former executive in the gambling industry, Kupper's call carries special significance, indicating that even insiders recognize the social harm caused by gambling advertisements and support enhanced regulatory measures.
Adolescent Participation Data and Risks
Kupper cited data showing that last year, over 600,000 Australian adolescents aged 12 to 17 participated in gambling activities. More concerning is that the gambling participation rate among 18 to 19-year-olds has risen to 46%, indicating that gambling behavior is becoming increasingly common among the youth.
This data reveals the significant impact of gambling advertisements on young people, particularly sports-related ads that are normalizing gambling behavior among adolescents, increasing potential risks.
Current Status of Advertising Regulation and Proposals
Although gambling itself is strictly regulated in Australia, Kupper pointed out that gambling advertisements are "basically unregulated." This regulatory imbalance has led to a proliferation of gambling ads across various channels, especially through sports events and media platforms.
Kupper supports the immediate implementation of three major restrictions: banning gambling advertisements in sports venues, banning gambling logos on team jerseys, and banning gambling advertisements one hour before the broadcast of sports events.
Scale of Gambling Issues and Economic Losses
The latest research data from the Australian National University shows that currently, 19.4% of adults are involved in high-risk gambling, the highest level in six years, reflecting the severity of gambling issues in Australia.
Australians lose up to 25 billion Australian dollars per capita annually due to gambling, making Australia the world leader in economic losses caused by gambling, highlighting the economic impact and social costs of the problem.
Government Response and Current Progress
Communications Minister Anika Wells responded that the government is continuing to widely solicit opinions and acknowledged that this process is complex but important. She denied claims that the government is biased towards industry stakeholders, emphasizing the government's role in balancing various interests.
The current attitude of the government indicates that although it recognizes the severity of the issue, it is still cautiously assessing and consulting before taking specific actions, and may not immediately implement a comprehensive ban.
Public Health Experts' Views
Public health experts expressed disappointment at the government's lack of urgency. Professor Samantha Thomas from Deakin University pointed out that because advertisements are ubiquitous, young people are increasingly viewing gambling as normal behavior, making intervention more difficult.
Experts emphasize that the widespread exposure to gambling advertisements not only increases participation rates but also makes it easier for adolescents to develop problematic gambling behaviors, necessitating immediate intervention measures.
Political Figures and Various Positions
Independent Senator David Pocock warned that without reform, the review led by the late Senator Peta Murphy might be shelved. He emphasized: "Young people should be able to enjoy sports without being bombarded by gambling promotions."
Green Party Senator Sarah Hanson-Young added that any action not fully banning gambling advertisements would be a "serious betrayal" to the community, indicating that some political forces support stricter measures.
Helpline Data and Trends
The latest data shows that the number of people under 24 calling the gambling helpline in 2023 has increased by 16%, reflecting the worsening trend of gambling issues among the youth.
The helpline data provides indirect evidence of the severity of the actual problem, indicating that more and more young people are experiencing negative consequences related to gambling and seeking help.
Social Impact and Future Outlook
The widespread dissemination of gambling advertisements is having a profound impact on society, particularly challenging the values and behavioral patterns of young people. Experts warn that without control, this could lead to long-term social problems and public health crises.
Future government decisions will need to find a balance between industry interests, individual freedom, and public health protection, a process that is expected to continue to provoke widespread social discussion and political debate.
