Australian football club Essendon has ended its commercial partnerships with betting and wagering companies.

Essendon Chief Executive Xavier Campbell said that the decision was not taken lightly given the highly lucrative nature of deals but added that it was a necessary stand to take against the negative impact of gambling.

The club also acknowledged that the move may cause some short-term financial pain, but says it’s focusing on strengthening relationships with other partners.

“We have a fantastic group of commercial partners and we will be directing our energy to nurturing these existing relationships, as well as establishing new partnerships with like-minded companies,” said Campbell.