Risky Gambling Among Aussie Adults Hits Six-Year High
A new study by The Australian National University (ANU) has revealed a worrying trend: risky gambling behaviour among Australian adults has hit a six-year high. A staggering 19.4% of adults are now engaging in unsafe gambling practices. The surge in risky behaviour is particularly concerning among younger adults, aged 18 to 24. This demographic is disproportionately affected, with online casinos being a significant contributing factor. The ease of access and convenience of online platforms have led to higher rates of gambling problems among young people. Contrary to this rising risk, overall gambling participation has been declining over the past 15 years. This suggests that while fewer people are gambling, those who do are engaging in riskier behaviour. The increase in online gambling, which is associated with more frequent gambling and psychological distress, is a major factor driving this trend. The impact of risky gambling behaviour is now being felt in family homes, with gambling harm becoming more prevalent. The ANU study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions to address the rising tide of risky gambling behaviour, particularly among younger adults. With online casinos continuing to grow in popularity, it is crucial to educate young people about the risks and provide support to those affected by gambling harm.
