Media group The Guardian has stopped accepting gambling advertising on all of its platforms.

Lenore Taylor, the editor of Guardian Australia, says readers want to enjoy the coverage of their favourite sport without being bombarded by ads encouraging them to bet.

“And while some of them may still enjoy the occasional bet, we want to be able to report on the unfolding debate about gambling harm, and the impact of saturation gambling advertising on this problem, certain that we are not contributing to it,” she says.

Both the Labor government and the Coalition opposition are making public comments on tightening the volume of gambling advertising on television. 

The federal parliament is conducting an inquiry into online gambling and its associated harms.

Morgan Stanley estimates $300 million was spent on gambling advertising in Australia last financial year.

Mason Rook, commercial director, Guardian Australia, says advertising should complement and enhance the reader experience, and positively impact society at the same time.

“With over half of Australians saying change is needed, there has never been a better time to take this bold step,” says Rook.

“No longer accepting gambling advertising will provide a more consistent and united message across the Guardian’s platforms, and will only serve to enhance the trusted, safe and effective advertising environment that advertisers have come to know us for. We hope others will be encouraged to take steps like these.”

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