Australia: Network 10 found in breach of gambling ad regulations during Formula One broadcast

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has issued a formal warning to Network 10 after an investigation found the broadcaster violated gambling advertising regulations during a live sports event. The breach occurred when Network 10 aired four gambling advertisements during the first practice session of a Formula One Grand Prix, during a time period in which such ads are prohibited.  

Under the Commercial TV Code of Practice, gambling advertisements cannot be broadcast during live sporting events between 5:00 a.m. and 8:30 p.m. This restriction also extends to the five minutes before and after the event. ACMA determined that practice and qualifying rounds for motorsports are subject to the same rules as the main event, meaning the placement of the ads was in direct violation of the code.  

While this marks the first recorded breach of gambling advertising rules by Network 10, ACMA acknowledged that the network attributed the incident to human error. In response, Network 10 has implemented additional safeguards to prevent similar occurrences. The broadcaster has voluntarily strengthened its planning and review processes for advertisement scheduling and agreed to conduct an internal review to enhance quality control measures.  

As part of its compliance efforts, Network 10 has also staff training initiatives and will provide ACMA with a written progress report detailing its ongoing improvements.

ACMA member Carolyn Lidgerwood highlighted the importance of strict oversight to ensure adherence to gambling ad restrictions: "Broadcasters should have strict controls in place to ensure compliance with the restrictions on gambling ads during sporting events. ACMA will closely monitor these actions and Network 10’s compliance with the broadcasting and online gambling advertising rules."  

While this is a first breach for Network 10, its 10 Play streaming service was previously reprimanded. In August 2023,10 Play was found to have breached online gambling advertising rules during two live-streamed sports events.