Australia’s Network 10 breaches gambling ads rule during Grand Prix
An investigation has found Network 10 broke gambling ad rules during the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix last March.
Network 10 is one of the largest Australian commercial television networks. It broadcasted the Albert Park Grand Prix held in Melbourne, Australia from March 22–24, 2024.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) revealed in a post that several gambling ads broadcasted during the Grand Prix were aired at prohibited times.
The Commercial TV Code of Practice states that ads related to gambling cannot be shown during sports event broadcasts between 5 am and 8.30 pm. This includes the five minutes before and after the event, and in the case of the Grand Prix, applies to both practice and qualifying rounds.
Carolyn Lidgerwood, a member of ACMA, said: “Broadcasters should have strict controls in place to ensure compliance with the restrictions on gambling ads during sporting events.”
Australia has struggled against the growing influence of the gambling industry, with operators donating $2.5 million to political parties.
What happened?The breach occurred during the first practice rounds of the Grand Prix, a prestigious motorsport competition held by Formula One.
Teams in Formula One have seen an increased number of sponsorship deals from gambling companies, such as Super Group’s partnership with Atlassian Williams Racing.
As reported by TVTonight, Network 10 claims that the ‘broadcasts occurred due to human error” as four gambling-related ads were shown at restricted hours.
ACMA acknowledged that this was the first breach made by Network 10. Following the investigation, Network 10 has improved planning, checks and balances when it comes to ad scheduling.
At the regulators’ request, Network 10 pledged to enforce stricter controls, and mandatory staff training and promised to submit progress reports.
Lidgerwood said: “The ACMA will closely monitor these actions and Network Ten’s compliance with the broadcasting and online gambling advertising rules.”
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