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Two seasons upon us
You might remember the advertising line: “There are two seasons, ‘Footy Season’ and ‘I can’t wait for Footy Season.’ Australians are mad for sport; no matter what the code, this month hosts the first matches. We may also be hearing a lot about sports betting in the news in the lead-up to a general election. Even though sports betting ads may become a “political football,” the fact remains that gambling harm is big in Australia.
The Hard Truth About Gambling Odds
Australians lose approximately $25 billion on legal forms of gambling each year, representing the largest per capita losses in the world, according to a recent Australian Institute of Health and Welfare report.
Who’s at Risk?
While the chances of winning maybe small, the risks of developing gambling problems are significant:
- 1 in 7 regular gamblers develop problems
- Young adults (18-34) are twice as likely to be at risk
- Employed young males with children face the highest risk
- Regular gamblers who bet weekly on sports, racing, poker machines, and casino table games face significantly higher risks of harm
The Ripple Effect
Gambling doesn’t just affect you. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s Gambling in Australia web article:
- High-risk gambling affects 6 other people
- Moderate-risk gambling affects 3-4 other people
- Even low-risk gambling affects one other person
For people in the ADF and certain other professions and positions of trust, gambling problems can lead not only to loss of money but the loss of a career.
Public Perception of Sports Betting
Perhaps as a result, most Australians are concerned about sports betting advertising:
- 69% believe wagering advertising is “too common”
- 53% think it “normalises gambling among children”
- 69% feel it makes “betting seem like a normal part of sport”
- 60% believe it makes “sport less family-friendly”
- 46% say it “decreases their enjoyment of sport”
Take Action Before Losing Control
Early intervention has excellent success rates. Here’s what you can do:
- Set deposit limits before you start
- Track your actual spending
- Talk to free, confidential counsellors
- Consult financial experts about your options
24/7 Support Services
Free, confidential help is available for you and your family:
- Problem gambling support: 1800 858 858
- Online chat, email, and forum available
Crisis Support
- Lifeline: 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
- MensLine Australia: 1300 789 978
- Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
All services offer online chat options and specialised counselling for different needs.
Remember: Whether you’re placing your first bet or gambling regularly, the odds show you’re likely to lose money—but you don’t have to lose everything. Help is available before gambling controls your life.
