Public transport is often a canvas for advertising, showcasing everything from the latest gadgets to upcoming events. However, a recent advertising campaign by Transport NSW has taken a turn that's left many commuters and online commentators feeling more than a little uncomfortable.

The campaign in question features advertisements for the betting site PickleBet, which have been prominently displayed on the side of trains, the light rail, and inside carriages across Sydney. This bold move has not gone unnoticed, with images of the ads circulating online and attracting a storm of criticism.

Locals found the ad wraps for betting platform PickleBet 'disgusting' and 'ugly'. Image Credit: Reddit/Todf

Many of you, our dear Seniors Discount Club members, might have seen these ads during your travels and felt a twinge of concern. 'Shame on you Transport NSW,' one online commenter echoed the sentiments of many, pointing out the inescapability of the gambling ads plastered 'inside and outside' on public trains. Another user highlighted the potential impact on those struggling with gambling addiction, describing it as 'absolute hell for someone trying to shake it'.

The backlash has been so significant that it has prompted an e-petition submitted to the NSW parliament, urging for the removal of these ads. The community's voice has grown so loud that it has reached the ears of the state government, with a spokesman for the Minister for Transport of New South Wales, Jo Haylen, stating that the ads are being reconsidered in light of 'community concern'.

Transport for NSW has found itself in a tricky situation, as their advertising suppliers are required to ensure that all material 'complied with all applicable laws.' According to the Australian Association of National Advertisers code of ethics, gambling ads are permitted in public forums as long as they do not depict or specifically target minors. Betting companies are also bound by strict guidelines that prohibit them from encouraging users to bet beyond their means.

This controversy comes at a time when Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been criticised for scrapping plans to pursue gambling ad reforms. Workplace Relations Minister Murray Watt confirmed that the government would not be pushing forward with the reforms at this time, opting instead to continue consultations on the laws. This decision has been met with disappointment, as the reforms were a key recommendation in a landmark report by the late Labor MP Peta Murphy.

The Coalition has seized upon this delay, with Peter Dutton condemning Labor for its inaction, calling it a 'cowardly and craven capitulation' and accusing the government of failing to make the right decisions.

As seniors, we've seen many changes in advertising over the years, and we understand the need for balance between commercial interests and community values. The debate over these gambling ads is a reminder that our voices are powerful and that we can influence change when we stand together.

Key Takeaways

• There has been significant backlash over new gambling ads seen on Sydney's public transport system, with many expressing their disdain online and one e-petition submitted to the NSW parliament.
• Transport for NSW is reconsidering the advertising campaign following community concern, and they're exploring possible changes under the existing advertising contracts.
• Advertisements for the betting site PickleBet have been particularly noted for their prevalence on trains, the light rail, and inside carriages across Sydney.
• Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been criticised for not pursuing gambling ad reforms immediately, as the government has decided to delay the reforms and continue consultation, despite it being a key recommendation in a report by the late Labor MP Peta Murphy.

We invite you to share your thoughts on this issue. Have you seen these ads on your travels? Do they concern you? How do you feel about the presence of gambling advertisements in public spaces? Your opinions matter, and we're here to listen and engage in this important conversation.

 

[GrannyJA!]

The government makes so much money from gambling, why would they give it up. It's not likely they will ever weigh the cost of losing the revenue against the cost of the damage, is it?

 

[Frida1944]

With the level of gambling addiction in Australia I find it absolutely abhorrent that any government agency could condone the use of advertising for this. One thing I find particularly distasteful is the sheer cynicism and proliferation of gambling advertising on the Foxtel network. Those adverts are always followed by a government warning against gambling - the irony seems to go over their head! But - hey- as long as these people are making money - who cares about the addicted?

 

[IAN3005]

The government makes so much money from gambling, why would they give it up. It's not likely they will ever weigh the cost of losing the revenue against the cost of the damage, is it?

Big bucks... no one wins except the government.

 

[Rosi Gordon]

Gambling has ruined so many lives so all advertising should be banned like cigarettes were. Cigarettes mostly hurt those that smoked with some getting second hand smoke illnesses but gambling devastates whole families. Time it stops.

 

[freedy50]

Where is all this faux outrage? Personally I couldn't care less if they advertise this. I've never seen or heard of it before anyway.

Can they ban advertising chocolate? I buy too much of that.