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‘Disgusting’: Transport NSW ads spark debate

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An advertising campaign on Sydney trains has raised eyebrows and now has come to the attention of the State Government.

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A new gambling advert released by Transport for NSW has sparked a backlash online, with the state government saying it is reconsidering the campaign due to “community concerns”.

Advertisements for betting website PickleBet have appeared on the sides and inside carriages of trains and light rail across Sydney in recent weeks.

'Disgusting': Transport for NSW ad sparks controversy

These ads are all over Sydney trains. Image source: Reddit

The images, shared online, have sparked hundreds of negative comments.

“Shame on Transport for NSW,” one commenter wrote, referring to gambling ads “inside and outside” on public trains.

Another user wrote: “It’s everywhere and there’s no escape. Gambling addiction is absolute hell for anyone trying to get over it.

An e-petition against the ads has also been lodged with the NSW Parliament.

In a statement to news.com.au, a spokesperson for NSW Transport Minister Jo Haylen said the ads were being reviewed.

“We understand the community’s concerns and are exploring possible changes to existing advertising contracts,” the spokesperson said.

A Transport for NSW spokesman said the organisation’s advertising suppliers were required to ensure material “complies with all applicable laws”.

'Disgusting': Transport for NSW ad sparks controversy

These ads were also found inside the trains. Image source: Reddit

According to the Australian Association of National Advertisers’ code of ethics, gambling ads can be published in public forums as long as they do not depict minors or specifically target minors.

Bookmakers also have strict regulations on advertising and are not allowed to encourage users to place bets beyond their means.

The move by Transport for NSW comes as Premier Anthony Albanese has been criticised for abandoning plans to introduce gambling advertising reforms this week.

'Disgusting': Transport for NSW ad sparks controversy

The ads also appeared on Sydney’s light rail. Image credit: TikTok

On Sunday, Workplace Relations Minister Murray Watt confirmed the government would not proceed with the long-touted reforms and said Labor would continue to consult on the laws.

This is despite the reforms being a key recommendation of a landmark report by the late Labour MP Peta Murphy.

“This is a very difficult and complex task which simply cannot be completed in the remaining week of Parliament this year,” Watt told reporters on Sunday.

'Disgusting': Transport for NSW ad sparks controversy

An inquiry chaired by Peta Murphy has urged Parliament to ban gambling advertising because it harms children and young people. Image: NewsWire

“There’s a lot on the government’s agenda to pass this week – cost of living, supports, housing relief, a range of bills to keep Australians safe, including our social media reforms – and this will be a focus as we continue to consult on gambling reform.”

The next opportunity for parliament to debate the laws will be in February, however, if Mr Albanese chooses to call a federal election in January, the debate could be delayed.

The Coalition has since used delay as a tactic, with Peter Dutton harshly criticising Labor for its inaction.

“This is a cowardly and craven capitulation – a demonstration of the government’s inability to make the right big decisions,” Mr Dutton said.

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