Football Victoria has proudly partnered with the Love the Game program since 2016, continuing to reject sports betting sponsorships and promote a gambling-free football environment. The organisation plays a leading role in raising awareness about the risks of gambling, especially for young people.
Children begin forming attitudes toward betting early, and with constant exposure to gambling ads and sponsorships, they may see betting as normal and risk-free. Parents and carers can help prevent future harm by being open about the risks of gambling and setting a positive example. Whether it’s placing a bet during a game or buying a scratchie, research shows children are watching—and learning.
Parents are the strongest influence on children’s attitudes toward gambling. Kids exposed to betting early are more likely to develop gambling problems later in life. Two in three parents who gamble do so in front of their children, and one in four report their child has gambled in the past year. Even small actions, like talking about wins or letting kids pick lottery numbers, can contribute to normalising gambling.
Football Victoria is committed to playing football for the love of the game—not for the odds. The Love the Game program provides clubs with tools to educate young people about gambling risks and promote critical thinking before they’re legally allowed to bet. The organisation encourages parents to model healthy behaviours and have honest conversations about gambling to help protect the next generation.
With over 600 sporting partners, Love the Game challenges the normalisation of sports betting, supporting clubs to create safer, gambling-free spaces. Clubs that join the program sign a charter, commit to avoiding sports betting sponsorships, and help reduce gambling-related harm through education and community engagement.
Launched in 2013, the program has grown through partnerships with sporting bodies across Victoria. It aims to reduce young people’s exposure to gambling ads, provide education, support clubs with better policies, and shift community attitudes. With sports betting becoming more accessible and embedded in the sporting experience, initiatives like Love the Game are more important than ever.
Football Victoria remains committed to creating a football culture built on passion, teamwork, and enjoyment—not gambling.