Australia’s commercial broadcasters have announced they will accept new regulations introduced by the country’s government concerning gambling advertising during live sports broadcasts, according to The Age newspaper.
Prime Minister Julia Gillard on Sunday formally announced the government’s demand that television and radio networks ban the promotion of live odds and restrict betting advertisements during sports matches.
The new rules prohibit such advertising during commercial breaks whilst matches are ongoing, but would be allowed during breaks in play, such as half-time, and before or after a game.
Julie Flynn, chief executive of Free TV, an industry body that represents Australia’s commercial free-to-air television licensees, said the body has accepted the move.
She said: “These are unprecedented restrictions for broadcasters but we accept the government has acted in response to community concern. We recognise that these are difficult issues and we will submit a revised code within the next two weeks in line with the Prime Minister's announcement.”
The regulations would apply to gambling on all television sports broadcasts, with the exception of horseracing.