ACMA PRIORITISES GAMBLING AD CHANGES
Australia’s media regulator is set to make gambling advertising reform one of its major compliance priorities for the 2026–27 financial year, signalling increased scrutiny across the sector. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has confirmed it will focus on rolling out and enforcing the Federal Government’s new restrictions as part of its broader regulatory agenda.
The reforms, announced earlier this year by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, represent one of the most significant shake-ups to gambling advertising in Australia in recent years. The changes are designed to reduce public exposure to betting promotions, particularly during times when children and families are likely to be watching sport.
Under the new framework, stricter limits will apply to television, radio and digital advertising, with live sports broadcasts facing tighter controls. From 2027, television betting advertisements will be limited to three per hour during daytime and evening viewing periods, while gambling promotions will be prohibited during live sporting events within those same times.
ACMA has indicated it will work closely with broadcasters, advertisers and online operators to support compliance, while also taking enforcement action where breaches occur. Alongside the advertising reforms, the regulator will continue targeting illegal gambling activity, including offshore operators, misleading scam services and social media influencers promoting unlawful betting platforms.
The compliance focus comes as Australia’s gambling sector navigates wider regulatory change, including recently updated anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing obligations. While some advocacy groups continue pushing for a total ban on gambling advertising, policymakers have so far opted for a more measured approach, balancing harm minimisation with concerns about driving consumers toward unregulated markets.
Source:
ACMA’s 2026–27 compliance priorities focus on protecting consumers | ACMA
Australia: ACMA to prioritize implementation of gambling advertising reforms for 2026–27 | Yogonet International
