The AFL’s Sydney Swans and A-League’s Macarthur FC have announced a new partnership with the NSW Office of Responsible Gambling and have pledged to turn down gambling sponsorships and raise awareness of gambling issues.

The partnerships come after a recent partnership between Cricket NSW and the Office removing gambling advertisement from Big Bash League (BBL) matches played in NSW.

Office of Responsible Gambling director, Natalie Wright, said she is excited to have two new clubs join the initiative.

“We now have four major agreements across three of the most popular codes after starting with cricket,” Wright said.

“That really speaks to clubs recognising their role in looking after their fans and their communities.

“Sport is a big part of our Australian culture, and it should be enjoyed without having to experience gambling advertising as part of a match,” she said.

As part of the partnership, the Sydney Swans and Macarthur FC will also commit to educate staff, players, and fans on the risks associated with gambling.

Sydney Swans CEO, Tom Harley, said the club is excited to work with the NSW Government’s ‘Reclaim the Game’ initiative.

“The focus of our partnership is on addressing the normalisation of sports betting and as part of this, Swans matches at the SCG will not feature gambling advertising or sponsorship,” Harley said.

Macarthur FC chairman, Gino Marra, said: “As a club, we want to ensure we are looking after the wellbeing of our members, fans, and the wider community.”

“This partnership does just that.

“Our fans have got behind us in this first season, and we are excited to get behind them too.

“The club, including our players, coaches, and staff, are passionate about raising awareness on this important topic,” Marra said.

The partnerships are the latest in a string of international efforts to eliminate gambling advertisements and sponsorships across sport, with the UK Government set to discuss the complete elimination of gambling sponsorship in sport.