Gambling in Australia
AUSTRALIA’S GAMBLING ADDICTION
Gambling has become one of Australia’s most serious public health challenges. Over 1.2 million Australians are directly affected by gambling harm through poker machines and online betting. With access now available 24/7 through mobile devices, problem gambling is spreading faster than ever and the impact reaches families, workplaces, and communities across the country.
Australia currently loses more to gambling each year than any other nation. But we have an opportunity to change that.
The Tragedy of Gambling
Featuring Timothy Costello & Michelle Pearse
Join Timothy and Michelle as they delve into Australia’s gambling crisis, exploring the staggering statistics, personal stories, and the urgent need for reform. Discover how gambling impacts individuals and families, and why it’s crucial to address this issue at both state and federal levels. There is a human and spiritual cost of Australia’s gambling crisis – from families torn apart to communities flooded with advertising.
THE HUMAN COST OF GAMBLING
LOST TO POKER MACHINES.
Most are located in lower-income suburbs.
AUSTRALIANS ARE PROBLEM GAMBLERS.
700,000 more live with them.
CAN BE LOST ON A SINGLE SLOT MACHINE.
Spins are allowed every three seconds and bets up to $10 each.
TEENAGERS GAMBLED $18 MILLION LAST YEAR.
OF 18-19-YEAR-OLDS GAMBLED $213 MILLION LAST YEAR.
WAS SPENT ON GAMBLING ADS LAST YEAR.
What Needs to Change
With gambling reform back on the national agenda, this is a critical moment for leadership. The solutions are clear. What’s needed is a coordinated national approach to put people before profit.
Ban Gambling Advertising
A complete ban on gambling advertising and inducements is essential. Decades of research confirm that partial restrictions fail to reduce harm. The same approach that curbed tobacco addiction can break gambling’s hold on the next generation.
Introduce Cashless Gaming Systems
Mandatory cashless gaming cards, $1 maximum bets, and enforced venue shutdown hours are proven to reduce addiction and money laundering. These reforms have succeeded overseas and should form the foundation of national policy.
Protect Children and Young People
Gambling exposure now begins in childhood through advertising, social media, and gaming. Banning loot boxes in under-18 games and enforcing genuine age verification are key steps to prevent lifelong harm.
Establish a National Regulator
Australia’s fragmented state-based model leaves dangerous gaps in oversight. A single, independent national regulator would provide consistent enforcement, transparent data, and accountability across the entire sector.
Adopt a Public Health Approach
Gambling harm should be addressed as a public health issue, not an individual weakness. National strategies on prevention, suicide reduction, and community education can shift the focus from profit to wellbeing.
A Biblical Perspective
What Scripture says about money, justice, and caring for people harmed by gambling.
Stewardship and Trust
The Bible teaches that everything we have belongs to God. Gambling rejects that truth, offering the illusion of control and wealth through chance. True stewardship means using resources wisely and trusting God for provision — not risking what He’s entrusted to us.
“No one can serve two masters… You cannot serve both God and money.” — Matthew 6:24
Protecting the Vulnerable
Gambling profits from loss. It often targets those already facing hardship, draining families and communities of stability. God calls His people to defend the poor and protect the vulnerable from exploitation.
“Whoever oppresses the poor to increase his own wealth… will only come to poverty.” — Proverbs 22:16
Contentment Over Greed
Scripture warns that the love of money is destructive. Gambling feeds discontentment, convincing people that fulfilment comes from gain rather than gratitude. Followers of Christ are called to live with generosity and peace, not restless pursuit of more.
“The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” — 1 Timothy 6:10
Self-Control and Compassion
Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit and a mark of maturity in faith. Christians are called to model it personally and to extend compassion to those trapped in addiction. The church’s response must be both practical and prayerful — restoring hope where gambling has caused harm.
“The fruit of the Spirit is… self-control.” — Galatians 5:23
Get the Facts
Australia loses more to gambling than any other nation.
Our fact sheet unpacks the data, policy gaps, and practical steps needed for reform — a resource for anyone who wants to understand the real impact and lead change.
Church Resources
Equip your church to take part in the national conversation on gambling reform.
Use these resources to raise awareness, pray together, and direct people to this campaign page to learn more.
Do You Need Help?
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, you’re not alone.
Free confidential support is available 24 hours a day.
- Call the National Gambling Helpline on 1800 858 858
- Visit gamblinghelponline.org.au
- For immediate danger or crisis support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14
Authorised by M. Pearse, Australian Christian Lobby,
PO Box 4015 Manuka ACT 2603 Australia