New Zealand is not planning to adopt Australia-style restrictions on sports gambling advertising for now, as authorities focus instead on enacting a regulatory framework for online casinos by May.
The Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) said it is monitoring Australia’s upcoming reforms but will wait to assess their effectiveness before considering similar measures domestically, local media reports.
Australia has announced sweeping changes set to take effect from January 1st, 2027, including limits on television betting ads during daytime hours and a full ban during live sports broadcasts, alongside restrictions on radio advertising and endorsements by athletes and celebrities.
In contrast, New Zealand’s immediate regulatory focus is on its pending Online Casino Gambling Bill, which is expected to be enacted in May 2026. The legislation aims to bring the currently unregulated online casino market under local oversight through a licensing system allowing up to 15 operators.
The DIA indicated that advertising rules for online casinos are likely to mirror some elements of Australia’s approach. Proposed measures include restricting ads during broadcasts with significant child audiences, banning sponsorships and endorsements, and limiting placements where more than 20 percent of viewers are under 18.
Officials said the Racing Industry Amendment Act 2025 already provides a legal basis for future advertising controls, but any further steps will be taken cautiously. “The Minister for Racing intends to observe the new system before considering further regulation,” the DIA said, emphasizing a data-driven approach to harm minimization.
Industry concerns remain. More than 50 sporting organizations have previously warned that stricter advertising rules could impact community sports funding. Meanwhile, the Advertising Standards Authority said it processed 955 complaints across all advertising sectors in 2025, with 12 advertisements raising issues under the Gambling Advertising Code. A code review is scheduled for later this year.
