Study Shows Increase in Online Gambling Participation
An expert in the field has noted that the number of Australians gambling at ‘risky levels’ has increased.
New studies on gambling habits across Australia have revealed a rise in online gambling participation, despite overall post-pandemic levels remaining stable. Data indicates a higher prevalence of risky gambling behavior.
Conducted by The Australian National University (ANU), the study analyzed data collected between April 2019 and January 2024. Participants were surveyed about their gambling activity and general well-being over the past year.
Lead author Aino Suomi emphasized the importance of the study in providing insights into Australian gambling habits. According to Suomi, the proportion of individuals gambling at risky levels has increased over the past year, rising from 11.6% to 13.6%.
Interestingly, the shift towards online gambling platforms, particularly sports betting, has been observed. While race betting was less popular, lottery ticket purchases were predominant in 2024, followed by raffles, scratchies, poker machines, and racing.
Groups more likely to engage in gambling were identified as older individuals, men, and those with lower education levels. The study also noted a decline in gambling participation rates during the pandemic, attributed to restricted access to gambling venues.
Online gambling has seen significant growth and is now a major platform for gambling activities. Suomi cautioned about the potential harm of unlimited access to online gambling if left unaddressed.
In another report utilizing the same survey data, the ANU team examined the impact of others’ gambling habits on Australians. Around 1.2 million adults (5.3% of the total adult population) reported being negatively affected by someone else’s gambling in the past year.
Further research by CQUniversity highlighted that Australians are among the world’s most prolific gamblers, with an annual gambling loss of roughly $25 billion. The study also raised concerns about the integration of gambling into online video games, making it more accessible.
Apps and online platforms are leading some individuals into gambling habits, with many expressing that they would not have gambled otherwise. It is essential to stay informed about the various forms of gambling to address potential risks.
Studies have indicated that around 40% of children aged 12 to 17 have engaged in video games with gambling elements, emphasizing the importance of educating parents and youth about the risks associated with such activities.
