Advertisements, mandatory messaging and signage

There are very specific rules that apply to all forms of gambling advertising.

This includes advertising on social media, indoor and outdoor signage, websites, television and radio.

The rules include:

• how the expressions 'win' and '$' may be used in advertisements
• black-out periods for advertising on television and radio
• prohibitions on including minors or the consumption of alcohol in advertising
• prohibiting advertising which suggests a player's skill can influence the outcome of the game
• ensuring that gambling advertising is not false, misleading or deceptive.

These rules are mandatory, and are outlined in more detail in the relevant gambling code of practice.

Penalties apply if a gaming provider does not comply with a mandatory provision of any gambling code of practice.

Mandatory warning messages - in venue gambling operators

All gambling advertising by hotels and clubs, the casino, the (SA) Lotteries Commission and venue-based wagering operators must include the correct mandatory warning message.

The message is determined by the date of the advertisement.

Stay in control. Leave before you lose it. Gamble responsibly.
1 January 2022 to 30 June 2022

You know the score. Stay in control. Gamble responsibly.
1 July 2022 to 31 December 2022

Know when to stop. Don't go over the top. Gamble responsibly.
1 January 2023 to 30 June 2023

Think of the people who need your support. Gamble responsibly.
1 July 2023 to 31 December 2023

Don't chase your losses. Walk away. Gamble responsibly.
1 January 2024 to 30 June 2024.

Don't let the game play you. Stay in control. Gamble responsibly.
1 July 2024 to 31 December 2024

If including the expanded warning message is unreasonable or impractical, the condensed warning message of 'Gamble responsibly. 1800 858 858' may be used.

In-venue signage

Gaming venues with gaming machines must also display mandatory signage.

Signage requirements for gaming areas

Key responsibilities for gaming machine licensees

Consistent gambling messaging – interactive wagering services

Interactive wagering service providers are required to include the consistent gambling messaging which is a measure of the National Consumer Protection Framework for Online Wagering in all relevant promotional and advertising materials.

The 7 taglines for use have been informed by extensive behavioural research and are as follows:

• Chances are you’re about to lose.

• Think. Is this a bet you really want to place?

• What’s gambling really costing you?

• What are you prepared to lose today? Set a deposit limit.

• Imagine what you could be buying instead.

• You win some. You lose more.

• What are you really gambling with?

A call-to-action with details of support services for safer gambling is required to accompany the tagline which has been used.

The standard call to action is: For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au .

There are different call-to-action messages and requirements for the use of them depending on what platform the advertising is presented on as well as the length of the advertisement.

More information about the consistent gambling messaging requirements, including rotation of messages, can be found here: Gambling Administration Guidelines - Consistent gambling messaging (cbs.sa.gov.au)

Related information

Making a complaint about a gambling provider

Codes of practice