Network Ten Breaks Gambling Ad Laws During Australian F1 Event

The Australian television broadcaster Network Ten was found to be in violation of gambling advertisement restrictions during the 2024 Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) flagged the broadcaster with four violations during the first practice round on March 22^nd.

The network displayed these advertisements during times outlawed under the Commercial Television Industry Code of Practice. The law prohibits gambling promotions from being displayed in live sports broadcasts from 5.00 am to 8.30 pm. The ads are also restricted during the five minutes before or after the event to protect individuals from gambling-related risks.

Strict Controls for Player Protection

The ACMA underscored the need for tight controls to prevent such incidences and protect the masses from exposure to gambling-related harm. ACMA member Carolyn Lidgerwood stated, "Broadcasters should have strict controls in place to ensure compliance with the restrictions on gambling ads during sporting events."

Network Ten explained the oversight as a human error. The broadcaster has amended its ad schedule, checks, and controls in response to ACMA's findings. It will undergo an independent review, train its staff to avoid future breaches, and provide the ACMA with a documented progress report.

Broader Efforts

The reprimand of Network Ten is one of many activities by the Australian government to eradicate unethical gambling practices. The ACMA has taken action beyond flagging ad violations, such as ordering Australian Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to restrict access to rogue gambling and affiliate marketing sites. These efforts have resulted in over 1,100 illegal gambling sites being blocked and around 220 affiliate services exiting the Australian markets for failing to meet tight regulations.

The authority also conducted a separate investigation last year and found the streaming serving 10 Play, also provided by Network Ten, in violation of online gambling ad rules during two live-streamed events. Lidgerwood explained that the ACMA would closely monitor these actions and the broadcaster's compliance.

A Show of Fortified Laws

The criticism against Network Ten's breach highlights Australia's commitment to legislative and policy implementations to ensure TV networks and digital platforms follow ethical advertising practices. The breach also demonstrates why vigilant law enforcement is necessary to fortify gambling laws across the country.