While Ontario has achieved notable successes in channeling users toward regulated operators, local authorities note that some areas still need improvement. With gambling harm prevention remaining a leading priority, officials and regulators are now taking a look at the proliferation of gambling advertisements. The Canadian province plans to examine how other leading jurisdictions deal with this issue and implement appropriate measures.
Recent Data Reveals a Spike in Gambling Exposure
Speaking for Canadian news outlet CTV News, Stan Cho, Ontario’s Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Gaming, was adamant that restrictions were solely needed. He drew attention to a Canadian Medical Association Journal study that uncovered how gambling ad exposure has skyrocketed. Men aged between 15 and 24 are the most affected, facing an increase in gambling advertisements of over 300%.
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) gambling addiction researcher Dr. Nigel Turner echoed these concerns. He noted that early exposure to gambling was especially concerning, as teenagers remain highly susceptible to addiction. The rising popularity of microbetting further exacerbates this trend through the gamification of sports events and the small, frequent bursts of engagement.
We’re worried about whether we are basically just creating a generation of gambling addicts.
Dr. Nigel Turner, CAMH gambling addiction researcher
ConnexOntario, the province’s free, 24-hour mental health and addictions helpline, has received a surge in calls. While only a small portion of individuals contacted the service regarding gambling harm, experts warn that most people with gambling disorders do not seek help until it is too late. According to Cho and Turner, stricter measures now would help prevent a future spike in gambling harm.
Ontario Is Already Taking Proactive Measures
The calls for advertising restrictions align with Ontario’s approach to gambling regulation. Recent Ipsos data revealed that regulated gambling now accounts for over 90% of all wagering in the province, which is a notable achievement. In May, Ontario launched BetGuard, helping gamblers access an effective self-exclusion service and complementing the province’s broader harm prevention efforts.
Ontario currently features limited advertising restrictions, with ads banned during live sports broadcasts. However, many operators have circumvented these limits by directly sponsoring teams or investing in on-pitch advertisements. The gambling sector also continues to grow, reporting consistent double-digit growth throughout 2025. While this has resulted in improved tax revenue, experts fear that the social costs are also mounting.
Ontario officials continue to debate the exact extent of the planned restrictions. One example could be Australia, where the government imposed strict timing and viewing restrictions without resorting to drastic measures. While some Ontario policymakers advocate for a complete ban on online gambling ads, most seem to prefer a more measured approach that will nevertheless protect the most vulnerable demographics.