Australian sports leagues accused of putting gambling profits ahead of public interest

Garance Limouzy October 1, 2024

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Australian sports leagues accused of putting gambling profits ahead of public interest

In a recent opinion piece, Tim Costello (pictured above), chief advocate of the Alliance for Gambling Reform (AGR) in Australia, denounced the AFL (Australian Football League) and NRL (National Rugby League) for prioritising gambling profits over the well-being of their fans. According to Costello, gambling advertising has become deeply embedded in these sports. He accused the two major sporting codes of profiting from the harm caused to their supporters, especially younger audiences, stating that a “whole new generation of supporters are indoctrinated in the odds just as much as the code.”

A “little-known deal”

Costello revealed a “little-known deal” between the AFL and corporate bookmakers, in which the AFL allegedly receives 10 cents for every dollar made by bookmakers on the game. This financial relationship, he argued, shows a clear conflict of interest that puts profit over responsibility. He also voiced concerns about the slow response from the federal government, pointing out that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has not acted on key gambling reforms proposed by the late Peta Murphy, despite receiving the Murphy report over 15 months ago.

In a meeting with the prime minister, Costello expressed his fears that the government is swayed by the gambling industry and its powerful allies, such as the AFL, NRL, and broadcasters. He compared Albanese to a parochial football fan, stating that the prime minister “appears to only see what he wants to see,” mirroring the positions of prominent figures like NRL chairman Peter V’landys. Costello called for stronger leadership from the government, especially in addressing online gambling advertising, which falls squarely under its jurisdiction.

Undemocratic lobbying?

The AFL and NRL are not alone in their close ties with the gambling industry. A recent analysis by the AGR uncovered that since 2022, 19 federal politicians from both major parties have accepted hospitality from major wagering companies, including tickets to high-profile sporting events such as the Melbourne Cup and the Australian Open. The AGR has flagged these gifts as creating “an undemocratic opportunity for lobbying,” raising concerns that gambling companies are using hospitality to influence legislative decisions on gambling ad reforms.

Despite assurances from politicians that these gifts do not sway their judgement, Costello remains sceptical. He argued that such access gives gambling companies an unfair advantage in pushing back against proposed reforms. “Politicians who receive hospitality from gambling companies may feel obligated, whether consciously or subconsciously, to prioritise the interests of these companies,” Costello stated.

As public support for stricter gambling ad regulations grows, Costello’s call to action remains clear: the government must take a stand against gambling harm and prioritise the health and safety of Australians over the interests of powerful sports and gambling industries.

However, a recent survey revealed that most Australian voters favour moderate restrictions on gambling advertising rather than a full ban. The survey polled 1,550 voters nationwide.