Is Victoria declaring war on online betting?
The Australian state of Victoria this week launched an advertizing campaign, in which it warns about the dangers posed by online gambling in general, and addresses the issue of online sports betting.
The campaign, whose baseline is "Online gambling. It's easy to bet, too easy to lose," aims at turning attention to how money, careers and relationships can be jeopardized by excessive online gambling.
A statement has been issued by Minister for Gaming, Michael O'Brien, pointing out that this is the first initiative that addresses interactive gambling technologies available via smartphones, tablets, computers and interactive televisions.
In the statement, he added that “[online gambling] accessibility, while convenient for some, poses real risks to others of increased problem gambling.
"New technology such as tablet computers, interactive television and smart phones means that it is easier than ever for Victorians to gamble from any location at any time."
Another comment was made by director of Turning Point Alcohol and Drug Centre which runs the Gambler's Help phone line and Gambling Help Online services, Professor Dan Lubman, who said: "The ease of being able to gamble online can make it harder to stay in control. Whether it's day or night, gambling online is accessible anytime, making it more difficult to keep track of how much you spend."
In addition, it has been specified by Minister O'Brien that the campaign was deliberately launched at the same time as the Spring Racing Carnival and AFL finals, adding that it will be advertized on TV and radio, the internet, newspapers and on public transport.
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