George Savvides, the former chair of SBS, has urged commercial broadcasters to give viewers the option to block gambling advertisements on their streaming services. Speaking exclusively, Savvides described gambling ads as promoting an 'addictive and destructive product' and argued that networks should follow SBS's lead in offering an opt-out feature.
SBS became the first television broadcaster globally to trial a gambling ad opt-out on its digital platform in 2024, making the change permanent from 2026. Savvides noted that the trial led to a 45% reduction in complaints and that advertisers supported the move, as they did not want to annoy unwilling viewers.
Savvides also called on the Australian government to adopt the recommendations of a parliamentary inquiry into online wagering, including a total ban on gambling ads after a transition period. The government has faced delays in responding, with lobbying from sporting codes and broadcasters opposing the ban.
Public health experts and the Alliance for Gambling Reform have backed the call, citing community harm. A report by Equity Economics found Australians lose more to gambling annually than the government spends on aged care. Tim Costello, chief advocate of the alliance, stated: 'No one is seeking to ban gambling but there is too much gambling advertising – too much of it is reaching our kids.'
The communications minister, Anika Wells, has restarted negotiations with industry, with legislation expected by the end of the year. In the UK, support for problem gambling is available via the NHS National Problem Gambling Clinic on 020 7381 7722 or GamCare on 0808 8020 133.
