The New South Wales (NSW) government has recently announced that it will be implementing a ban on all external gambling signage effective September 2023. This decision comes as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to reduce the harm caused by problem gambling in the state.
The ban will apply to all forms of outdoor advertising for gambling products and services, including billboards, posters, and electronic signs. The only exception will be for signage that is displayed within the confines of a licensed gambling venue.
The move has been welcomed by anti-gambling campaigners, who have long argued that the proliferation of gambling advertising in public spaces has contributed to the normalisation of gambling and made it more accessible to vulnerable individuals.
Research has shown that exposure to gambling advertising can increase the likelihood of problem gambling, particularly among young people. A study conducted by the University of Sydney found that children as young as eight years old were able to recall and recognise gambling logos and slogans, indicating that they are being exposed to these messages at an early age.
The NSW government’s decision to ban external gambling signage is part of a broader package of measures aimed at reducing the harm caused by problem gambling. Other initiatives include the introduction of a statewide self-exclusion register, which will allow individuals to voluntarily exclude themselves from all forms of gambling in NSW.
The government has also committed to introducing stricter regulations around online gambling, including a ban on credit card payments for online betting and tighter restrictions on the use of inducements to encourage people to gamble.
While the ban on external gambling signage has been welcomed by many, some industry groups have expressed concerns about the impact it will have on their businesses. The Australian Hotels Association (AHA) has argued that the ban will disproportionately affect small businesses, many of which rely on gambling revenue to stay afloat.
However, the government has stated that it will be providing support to affected businesses through a range of measures, including grants and other financial assistance.
Overall, the ban on external gambling signage is a positive step towards reducing the harm caused by problem gambling in NSW. By limiting the exposure of vulnerable individuals to gambling advertising in public spaces, the government is taking an important step towards creating a safer and more responsible gambling environment.
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- Source: https://zephyrnet.com/nsw-government-bans-external-gambling-signage-from-september-2023/