Gambling

Gambling affects the health and wellbeing of individuals and families. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare state that in Australia about $25 billion was lost on legal forms of gambling in 2018-19. 

Harm from gambling is not only about losing money or financial problems, gambling harm can also include:

• health problems including emotional, psychological distress or physical issues
• issues with relationships with family or friends
• problems with work or study
• cultural problems
• criminal activity

Support is available for people experiencing gambling harm.

All forms of gambling, such as poker machines, casinos, lotteries and online gambling are licensed and regulated by the state and territory regulators.

Online gambling 

Online gambling is the fastest growing gambling segment. In 2022, Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) found that more than one in 10 (11%) Australians have reported participating in online gambling at some stage in the previous 6 months. This figure is up from 8% in 2020. Digital technology means people are able to gamble at any time.
The Australian Government, together with the State and Territory Governments, has introduced a suite of minimum consumer protections for people who gamble online. Read more about the National Consumer Protection Framework for Online Wagering (National Framework).

Last updated: 16 October 2024 - 4:26pm