Greens’ spokesperson for sport and gambling, Senator Richard Di Natale, has called on the AFL to loosen its ties to the gambling industry.

“Another day, another gambling controversy with links to the AFL,” said the Senator.

Betezy, a sports betting website in partnerships with six AFL clubs, is being pursued by the Victorian Commission for Gambling Regulation for offering inducements to gamble or refer friends.

“The fact that betting companies now have access to club names and colours is a new low," said the Senator.

“As a Richmond tragic and former VFA footballer, I love my football, but the relationship between football and gambling has to be dealt with.”

“The situation is especially bad for kids who are now finding it difficult to separate gambling and footy. Betting odds are now part of how they understand the game.”

“I will be meeting with The AFL in the off-season and I look forward to discussing how we can break the nexus between footy and gambling."

Media contact: Andrew Blyberg 0457 901 600