A comprehensive new report commissioned by the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation (VRGF) estimates that gambling-related harm costs Victoria AUD $14.1 billion each year. The research was carried out by Central Queensland University and highlights both the direct and indirect effects of gambling on society.
Impact Extends Beyond the Gambler
The study emphasizes that the consequences of gambling harm extend well beyond individual bettors. Families, workplaces, and communities also bear the social and financial fallout. The new figure marks a dramatic increase from the last major estimate, which placed the cost at AUD $7 billion.
EGMs and Sports Betting Drive the Majority of Harm
An estimated 80% of losses across the state are linked to electronic gaming machines (EGMs) and sports betting. EGMs, or “pokies,” were found to be the biggest contributor, both in terms of revenue and in their connection to problem gambling behaviors.
Link Between EGMs and Gambling Addiction
Researchers noted that people who regularly play EGMs are more likely to score high on the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI). This suggests a stronger link between these machines and gambling addiction, compared to other forms of betting.
Calls for Regulation or Potential Ban
The study suggests that restricting access to EGMs — or even banning them — could significantly reduce harm and improve public health outcomes. This recommendation echoes recent calls from healthcare professionals for tighter regulation of gambling, especially online promotions that glamorize pokies without warnings.
A Wake-Up Call for Policymakers
The findings come amid increasing public concern about the effects of gambling, especially on vulnerable populations. The report urges the government to consider stronger consumer protections and rethink the role of high-risk gambling products in Victoria’s gaming landscape.