NSW authority partners local sports teams on betting ads opt-out scheme

Australian rules football club Sydney Swans and A-League football team Macarthur FC have both signed up to the scheme, through which they have agreed to not accept any gambling-related sponsorships.

The teams have also committed to educating their staff, players and supporters about the risks associated with gambling.

The New South Wales Office of Responsible Gambling signed a similar agreement with Cricket NSW in October last year. The authority is now in talks with other codes and clubs, with the aim of announcing more sign-ups later this year.

“We now have four major agreements across three of the most popular codes after starting with cricket; that really speaks to clubs recognising their role in looking after their fans and their communities,” director of the Office of Responsible Gambling Natalie Wright said.

“Sport is a big part of our Australian culture, and it should be enjoyed without having to experience gambling advertising as part of a match.”

Sydney Swans chief executive Tom Harley added: “The focus of our partnership is on addressing the normalisation of sports betting and as part of this, Swans matches at the SCG will not feature gambling advertising or sponsorship

Tom Harley, Chief Executive Officer of the Sydney Swans said the club was thrilled to be working in partnership with the NSW Government’s Reclaim the Game initiative to raise awareness of the risks associated with gambling.

Macarthur FC chairman Gino Marra also said: “As a club, we want to ensure we are looking after the wellbeing of our members, fans, and the wider community. This partnership does just that.”