There are concerns that young people are being increasingly exposed to gambling, from local venues to online platforms.
Participation data has shown that gambling is spread across a wide range of activities, including lotteries, scratch tickets and electronic gaming machines. These forms of gambling are widely accessible and often low cost, making them easier for young people to engage with.
More traditional forms, such as race betting and sports betting, continue to attract participants, particularly through online platforms.
Illawarra resident Carter Jones, 26, said gambling is present across multiple aspects of everyday life, with easy access playing a key role in why young people are drawn to gamble.
“It’s got its ups and downs… from sports betting apps… even video games where you’ve got loot boxes,” Jones said.
“I guess there’s easy access through phones and apps… especially on social media.
“As soon as you turn 18… you go to the pub… have a beer and slap some money because that was the most exciting thing to do.”
Research has shown gambling behaviour is shifting beyond traditional poker machines, with increasing participation in lotteries, online games and sports betting.
Senator David Pocock told ABC News that gambling has become normalised highlighting the constant exposure to gambling promotion.
“Three out of four young Australians now think that gambling and betting on sport is just a normal part of enjoying sport,” he said.
“Everywhere you turn, there are ads.”
Labor MP Dr Mike Freelander told ABC News that gambling advertising should be treated as a “public health issue,” and said he has seen its impact on families and young people.
“It does cause a lot of harm and the marketing and advertising is directed at those that are going to be harmed the most,” he said.
The physical presence of gambling also contributes to its visibility.
Certain areas across New South Wales have significantly higher numbers of electronic gaming machines, increasing exposure with local communities.
Mr Jones said gambling was widely seen as normal among his peers once they reached legal age and described how easy it was to lose control while gambling.
“Everyone’s got their fair share at the pokies… some will win, some will lose,” he said.
“You just think, one more win… and then you go get another $100 or $200 by the end of the night you’re probably $500 deep.”
Mr Jones further adds how the environment makes it easy to fall into the cycle.
“You’re around a lot of people that have the same kind of mindset… all you want to do is put some money through,” he said.
Gambling remains widely accessible with exposure continuing to grow in everyday settings.
Graph credit: Evie Allen
