Gambling is a big business in Australia, with millions participating in various forms of gambling each year. In fact, studies show that 73% of all Aussies have placed a bet at least once in their life, with 38% gambling at least once a week.
Although the negative consequences of gambling, including addiction, financial losses and relationship breakdowns, are fairly well known. Recent findings from an AGRC survey show the prevalence and severity of gambling-related harms to the Australian population and, more importantly, the need for urgent social responsibility measures.
AGRC Studies Worrying Findings
Alarmingly, a study carried out by the AGRC found that 46% of Australian gamblers are at some risk of experiencing gambling-related harms, with 1.4% classified as problem gamblers and 2.2% as moderate-risk gamblers. This means that almost half of all Australian gamblers are vulnerable to negative consequences associated with their gambling behavior.
The study also revealed that certain demographic groups are more at risk of gambling-related harms. Men were found to be more likely to be problem gamblers, while people aged 18-24 and those with lower levels of education were more likely to be at risk of gambling-related harms. Indigenous Australians were also found to be more at risk of experiencing gambling-related harms than non-Indigenous Australians.
The Need For Urgent Action
It’s not enough that this study has revealed quite a sobering reality, more awareness needs to be made and to do this, more promotion of responsible gambling is necessary. In keeping with research bodies, there has been a rise in gambling ads promoting all sorts of online casinos and sportsbooks, enticing Australian players to sign up and take advantage of no deposit Australia bonuses, free bets, and many other promotions.
At the end of the day, the survey findings of this study highlight the need for increased social responsibility measures in the gambling industry. Gambling operators are responsible for protecting their customers from the negative consequences of gambling and promoting responsible gambling behavior. This can be achieved through a range of measures, such as self-exclusion programs, responsible gambling advertising, and education programs.
Pre-commitment Systems
One example of a successful social responsibility measure is the introduction of pre-commitment systems on electronic gaming machines. These systems allow players to set limits on their gambling behavior, such as the amount of money they are willing to spend or the amount of time they will spend gambling. Studies have shown that pre-commitment systems can reduce gambling-related harms and promote responsible gambling behavior.
Information and Resources for Problem Gamblers
Another important social responsibility measure is the provision of information and resources for problem gamblers. Gambling operators should inform customers about the risks associated with gambling and the signs of problem gambling. They should also provide access to support services, such as counselling and self-help groups, for those who are experiencing gambling-related harms.
Further Research
The findings of the AGRC study also highlight the need for further investment into research into the causes and consequences of gambling-related harms. This research can inform the development of effective social responsibility measures and help to identify new strategies for preventing and reducing gambling-related harms.
The Final Word
In short, this survey clearly demonstrated that Australians had a solid understanding of the problems caused by unrestrained gambling, with many agreeing that it was ‘dangerous for family life’ and saying it ‘should be discouraged. Moreover, they acknowledged being regularly exposed to gambling advertising via both traditional and social media, which clearly serves to attract more people to partake in the activities.
With this in mind, it is clear that gambling operators need to work with other key stakeholders to implement various social responsibility measures to protect vulnerable people from the negative aspects of gambling. With these measures and ongoing research and support services, the goal of creating a safe and responsible gambling environment for all Aussies should be achievable. ’
Author’s Bio:
As a Marketing Director and Editor at NoDepositRewards.com, Mason Jones is pragmatic by nature. He has always believed statements need to be backed by solid and tangible facts. This is why whenever he greenlights as story prior to live publishing, he makes sure his team goes through it with a fine toothcomb. In his free time, Jones likes giving back to the community by coaching young immigrant kids to play football. He feels that promoting the importance of sport from a tender age sets the stage for discipline and overall wellbeing later on in life.
