‘Draconian & Unnecessary’ – Seven Boss Tim Worner slams move to ban Betting Ads

The chief executive of Seven West Media, Tim Worner has today described any move to place further restrictions on sports betting advertising on television as ‘draconian and unnecessary’.

The statement comes after Independent Senators Nick Xenophon and Andrew Wilkie indicated gambling advertising reform would be one of their major priorities when Parliament resumes.

Sports’ betting has become extremely important to the commercial TV sector, and particularly Seven’s revenue stream with Bookmaker commercials and Betting Odds heavily featured throughout the networks sports broadcasts, including AFL.

In recent years the network has also invested heavily in Horse Racing broadcast rights culminating in last years launch of a 24/7 racing channel in partnership with Racing Victoria. It’s understood Seven is looking toward striking a similar partnership with NSW racing authorities.

Betting agencies spend approximately $150 Million promoting their products, a considerable portion of that on TV advertising.

Commenting Tim Worner, CEO and Managing Director of Seven West Media, said:

“We feel like we are in Groundhog Day. Seven and the other networks are already heavily regulated and we are very serious about our compliance. In fact, we undertake self-regulation beyond the provisions under the code.

“We already have extensive restrictions in place to ensure community standards are met. I have children myself and I am not blind to the concerns. This is borne out by the fact that the incidence of complaints from our viewers on sports betting ads is actually low.

“We have already banned the placement of betting and gambling ads during any programs classified G and the new Code prohibits advertisements relating to betting and gambling during any program that is broadcast between 5.00am and 8.30pm and principally directed to children. We feel this targeted approach will deliver a better outcome for all.”