The Nine network breached advertising rules by running ads encouraging betting on the 2016 AFL grand final during a children's film, the broadcasting regulator has found.
Nine ran six ads promoting online betting on the Western Bulldogs-Sydney Swans clash during a screening of kids' fantasy film The Spiderwick Chronicles on its Go! channel in September, the Australian Communications and Media Authority says.
Viewers were urged to bet on the winning team and the player who would score the first goal.
Running the ads during a film that started at 6.30pm breached commercial TV code of practice rules that ads relating to betting or gambling must not be broadcast in children's shows screened before 8.30 pm.
Acting ACMA chairman Richard Bean said the restriction was expanded in 2015 to address community concern about children's exposure to gambling advertising.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
"Since the code came into effect in December 2015, these types of commercials cannot be broadcast in programs principally directed to children, regardless of their classification," Mr Bean said on Friday.
ACMA will not pursue further action against Nine, saying the breach was a first offence of the new rule and the network had made changes to minimise the likelihood of another breach.
