This comes at a time when many households are already struggling. Wages aren’t keeping up with the cost of living, yet gambling companies continue to spend millions on advertising – pushing betting, pokies, and online games into everyday life. Australians are now exposed to nearly 1,000 gambling ads every day across TV, billboards, apps, and social media.
Footy finals and racing season: a risky time
During the AFL and NRL finals and the Spring Racing Carnival, gambling advertising reaches its peak.
This saturation creates the impression that gambling is just part of the celebration. Promotions suggest that betting is fun, harmless, and expected. But for many, what starts as a casual punt during finals season can spiral into serious financial and emotional harm.
Young men are at higher risk
Young men aged 18–25 are among the most vulnerable. The excitement of sport, peer pressure, and the lure of “easy wins” make this group a prime target for betting companies.
A night out with mates, a few drinks, and a sports betting app can quickly get out of hand. “Bonus bets,” “cash back” offers, and so-called “risk-free” incentives flood their phones and feeds — normalising gambling before they realise the risk.
Gaming and gambling: a blurred line
It’s not only sports betting that puts young people at risk. Many online games include loot boxes, skins trading, and other gambling-like features. These expose children and teenagers to gambling behaviours long before they ever step inside a betting agency.
What may seem like harmless fun can teach the same habits as gambling: chasing wins, overspending to keep up, and believing the next try will be different. This early exposure makes the jump to gambling later in life much easier.
A public health issue
Gambling products are designed to keep people playing longer and spending more than they can afford. The harm goes far beyond money – it contributes to financial stress, relationship breakdowns, family violence, and mental health challenges.
In her 2022 Parliamentary Report, the late Peta Murphy MP called for urgent reform to reduce gambling harm and protect communities. Some progress has been made – such as mandatory overnight pokies closures – but much more is needed.
You’re not alone — support is available
Gambling harm can affect anyone, especially when betting and gaming are so embedded in everyday life. It’s not always easy to avoid, and reaching out for help is a strong and positive first step.
Each offers free, confidential, and judgment-free gambling and support services, including:
- Gamblers help eastern – gamblers support for people living in Melbourne’s east
- Chinese peer connection – support for people from Chinese communities across Australia
- Financial counselling service - financial support for people living in Melbourne’s east
You can also contact Gambling Help Online for free, confidential, 24/7 support if you're experiencing gambling-related issues: 1800 858 858.
If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out today.
