In an act to deter the pervasive nature of targeted digital advertising, the Guardian has today announced that it will no longer allow gambling advertisements across any of its global platforms.

This announcement has been made ahead of an Australian parliamentary inquiry into online gambling and its associated harms to individuals, families, and even whole communities.

In Australia, the gambling industry has grown rapidly and accounts for around $25 billion lost annually, the highest gambling losses in the world. It is estimated that 1.3 million people, across Australia, experience gambling harm such as financial distress and mental health issues.

Speaking into the issue, Lenore Taylor, editor of Guardian Australia said, “Readers want to enjoy the coverage of their favourite sport without being bombarded by ads encouraging them to bet on it.

“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.”

Studies have shown that most of the population agrees that gambling advertisements should be banned.

Mason Rook, commercial director of Guardian Australia said, “We believe that 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.

“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.”

The new policy applies to all online advertisements on the Guardian’s website, app, audio, video, and newsletters, as well as print advertisements in the Guardian and Observer newspapers in the UK and Guardian Weekly. It also covers all forms of gambling advertising, including sports betting, online casinos, and scratchcards.

At CARE, we are delighted that such a major news outlet has taken this stance. We believe it is a step in the right direction to protect vulnerable people online. Read more about our campaigning work in the UK.