Approximately one in three Australian children aged 12 to 17 engages in gambling, with the issue escalating significantly among 18 to 19-year-olds
A recent study sheds light on the troubling extent of teen gambling in Australia, pointing out the possible future effects of habits picked up in youth.
Aussie Teens Spend $231 Million Annually on Gambling
About one in three Aussie kids between 12 and 17 gambles, and this problem gets much worse for those 18 to 19 years old. Experts at The Australia Institute think that young Australians in this age group spend about $231 million each year on gambling. This number shows how big the problem has become, as gambling among teens is not just common but is starting to seem normal, which raises big concerns for public health and well-being.
The study, which surveyed young Australians, reveals that gambling has a strong presence in traditional forms, like sports betting and lotteries, and through digital platforms, including gaming and virtual betting. In the past, gambling was limited to physical venues with age restrictions. However, the growth of online gambling has made it easier for younger people to access, as they can often get around age checks. Some teenagers even use accounts set up by grown-ups or log onto unregulated foreign websites to place bets.
Gambling rates for 18 to 19-year-olds are almost twice as high as those for younger teens, with 46% saying they have gambled in the last year. This group spends about $321 a year on gambling, which is way more than the $9.18 that 12 to 17-year-olds spend. However, for those who do gamble, the numbers can go up a lot. The research shows that 18 to 19-year-olds who gamble spend a whopping $698 on average each year.
Rising Teen Gambling Could Lead to Serious Consequences, Experts Push for Stricter Policies
Experts caution that gambling habits starting in the teen years can have lasting consequences, often continuing into adulthood. These trends indicate that the behaviors young people pick up now might result in future financial problems, mental health issues, and troubled relationships. Scientists are pushing for quick policy changes, such as prohibiting gambling ads, especially during times when teens are likely to watch TV or browse social media.
People who want to change gambling laws are worried about how the industry is trying to appeal to younger people. Betting ads are everywhere now during big sports events. This means kids and teens see a lot of messages about gambling, which makes betting seem normal. The public has been pushing the government to put stricter rules in place. A government study in 2023 suggested some changes, but not much has happened yet to make these changes real.
Experts like Professor Sally Gainsbury from the University of Sydney’s Gambling Treatment and Research Clinic say that gambling’s growing acceptance among teens is a big problem. She points out that the widespread presence of gambling ads online, has changed how people see gambling. It now seems more normal and less frowned upon. If we do not take strong action, this trend could lead to generations of Australians who see gambling as a regular part of life, which could have terrible effects.
Studies show that Australian teens are more likely to gamble than play popular sports, like soccer or basketball. This eye-opening comparison shows how gambling has become more popular than traditional hobbies among young people.
