The recent announcement of Snoop Dogg as the headliner for the AFL Grand Final’s pre-game entertainment has sparked a heated debate, overshadowing a more pressing issue: the role of sports organizations in addressing violence against women. The AFL’s decision to feature the American rapper, known for his controversial lyrics, has drawn criticism from Victorian organizations dedicated to preventing violence against women, who argue that the choice is “dangerous” given the rising femicide rates in Australia.
While the uproar over Snoop Dogg’s performance choice captures public attention, a broader conversation about the AFL’s complicity in perpetuating harmful industries is being overlooked. Last month, the Carlton Football Club’s 10th annual Carlton Respects round was praised for promoting gender equality and striving for a future free of violence. However, this praise stands in stark contrast to the silence surrounding the club’s reliance on gambling revenue, which has been linked to higher rates of family violence.
The Role of Gambling and Alcohol in Violence
The Carlton Football Club’s financial entanglement with gambling is significant. In the 2024-25 financial year, the club earned over $10 million from its venues, according to the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission data. A 2018 report by Charles Livingstone from Monash University highlighted that areas hosting AFL-run pokies machines see a significant increase in family violence. Despite this, Carlton, along with a few other clubs, continues to profit from gambling.
Similarly, alcohol consumption has been identified as a contributing factor to domestic violence. A study by La Trobe University found a more than 40% increase in domestic assaults in NSW during State of Origin games, with similar spikes reported on AFL Grand Final day in Victoria. Despite these findings, the link between alcohol and violence remains underemphasized in public discussions and prevention strategies.
Challenges in Addressing Systemic Issues
The AFL and associated organizations have long promoted sport as a platform for the primary prevention of violence against women. However, the failure to address the influence of gambling and alcohol industries within this framework is a glaring oversight. The national prevention strategy, Change the Story, has faced criticism for prioritizing gender inequality as the primary driver of violence, relegating other risk factors like alcohol and gambling to secondary status.
In response to growing concerns, the Albanese government commissioned a “Rapid Review” into prevention approaches, resulting in 21 recommendations, including a ban on gambling advertising and stricter alcohol regulations. The review criticized Change the Story for its narrow focus, which has led to the neglect of significant risk factors.
Expert Opinions and Future Directions
Experts like Caterina Giorgi, former CEO of the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education, have voiced concerns about the current prevention strategies. Giorgi emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach that includes addressing alcohol and gambling as integral parts of the solution. “Changing attitudes is necessary, but it is insufficient in changing behaviors,” she stated.
Marcia Neave, who led Victoria’s Royal Commission into Family Violence, has also called for a reevaluation of the national prevention strategy, highlighting the limitations of focusing solely on gender inequality. Neave’s insights, echoed in Jess Hill’s Quarterly Essay, underscore the need for a more integrated approach to tackling violence against women.
Our Watch, the organization responsible for Change the Story, has defended its approach while acknowledging the importance of addressing reinforcing factors like gambling and alcohol. In a statement, chair Moo Baulch emphasized the organization’s collaboration with specialist groups to tackle these complex issues.
Conclusion: A Call for Comprehensive Action
As the debate over Snoop Dogg’s performance continues, it is crucial to focus on the systemic issues that contribute to violence against women. The AFL and related organizations must confront their relationships with gambling and alcohol industries to create a meaningful impact. Gender equality is a vital goal, but it should not overshadow the need to address all contributing factors to violence.
For those affected by sexual assault or violence, support is available through 1800RESPECT at 1800 737 732 or 1800RESPECT.org.au. In emergencies, dial 000. For gambling-related issues, the National Gambling Helpline offers support at 1800 858 858.
Declaration of Interest: Kristine Ziwica worked at Our Watch from 2014 to 2016 but has not been involved with the organization since.
Statement from Moo Baulch, chair of Our Watch: “Our Watch supports the critical and nuanced work done by specialist organizations that work to prevent the harms caused by gambling and alcohol misuse. These organizations have the unique skills and expertise needed to address these complex problems. Our Watch collaborates actively with various organizations to drive policy and practice change, strengthen advocacy, and support efforts to create cultures of safety and equality for women.”
