The perils of compulsive gambling: Man shares is experience of addictive habit and devastating impact
Australia is recognized as the world's leading nation in terms of gambling losses per capita. In recent years, its gambling sector has faced increased scrutiny, with public inquiries revealing major casino operators' inadequate efforts to address the prevalence of problem gambling, particularly among younger demographics.
Data from Gambling Help Online indicated a 16% increase in the number of individuals aged 24 and under reaching out to the support service during the 2022-23 fiscal year. Among them, approximately 600 young people aged 15 to 24 from Victoria sought assistance out of a total of 2,136 requests received.
Slippery Slope
Mark Stockwell, a former gambling addict whose compulsive behaviour led to criminal activities and eventual incarceration, is among the many individuals who have experienced the devastating consequences first hand. He now advocates for change, aiming to prevent others from following a similar path.
Reflecting on his experience, Stockwell recounted how what began as occasional bets on horse racing and AFL games quickly spiralled into a daily obsession, fuelled by the accessibility of online gambling platforms on his mobile phone. To sustain his gambling habit, he resorted to acquiring multiple credit cards, accumulating significant debts in the process. Desperate to cover his losses, Stockwell ultimately began embezzling funds intended for a cancer charity, resulting in criminal charges and imprisonment in 2020.
Unfortunately, gambling addiction can be difficult to recognize in the moment, with the signs often not becoming obvious until financial ruin sets in, as was the case with Stockwell. But it’s not enough to be self-aware of one’s habits, either. The right channels need to be readily available so those who may be showing signs of addictive behaviour, have easy access to helpful tools - whether it’s to prevent or support compulsive activity. This applies to punters who, like Mark Stockwell, enjoy a good sports wager, as well as online casino enthusiasts who use no deposit free spins bonuses.
Nevertheless, there are plenty of helpful online resources where gamblers can get all the necessary support and guidance, even from the very sites that offer casino games and promotions. If you would like to read more about this, you can click here.
Call for Advertising Reform
Stockwell observed that his wins often fuelled his belief in consistent success. However, he cautioned that, in reality, betting results in losses about nine times out of ten. He also highlighted the pervasive nature of gambling exposure, noting that betting advertisements are constantly prevalent, making avoidance nearly impossible.
Stockwell’s sentiments resonate with findings from a recent Nielsen study, which revealed that more than a million gambling ads aired on free-to-air television and radio in just 12 months, enticing people into betting. Free TV Australia, however, disputed claims made by some anti-gambling advocates, arguing that the prevalence of wagering advertisements on television had been exaggerated.
These revelations surfaced as the federal government contemplated endorsing a bipartisan parliamentary committee's proposal to ban all gambling promotions from online bookmakers within three years. This follows the announcement that credit cards will no longer be accepted as payment, compelling consumers to gamble only with funds they possess
Alliance for Gambling Reform
Carol Bennett, CEO of the Alliance for Gambling Reform, emphasised the urgent need for tighter regulation of sports betting during her interview with ABC News. Citing data indicating that over 70% of Australians oppose sports wagering or advocate for a ban on sports betting advertisements, Bennett underscored the concerning prevalence of gambling, even among children as young as ten. She warned of the potential continuation of Australia's reputation as the world's leading nation in gambling losses per capita if action is not taken.
The Alliance for Gambling Reform's stance aligns with Bennett's concerns. In response to the 2023 inquiry by the Australian Standing Committee on Social Policy and Legal Affairs on online gambling, the Alliance expressed support for proposals advocating the prohibition of online gambling advertisements. Additionally, they endorsed recommendations for a more unified approach to gambling regulation. Currently, regulation occurs at the state level, overseen by entities like the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission and Liquor & Gaming NSW. While the Australian Communications and Media Authority monitors gambling advertising, its focus is primarily on illegal offshore gambling sites.
If the Alliance's endorsed proposals are implemented, Australian legislation could adopt a national strategy to reduce online gambling harm, establish a national regulatory body, and require the gambling industry to finance measures proposed by the regulator through an industry-wide levy.
Responsible gambling
Betting online can be an enjoyable form of entertainment, but we are committed to ensuring that you gamble responsibly. Please be aware of the risks associated with gambling, and only bet what you can afford to lose.
All of the bookmakers highlighted on this page are fully regulated by the UK Gambling Commission.
Never sign up to a betting site that is not licenced by the UKGC and not on GAMSTOP
When using any online gambling site, remember to set deposit and loss limits, so that you do not gamble more than you can afford to lose. Gambling should not be considered as a way to make money or get you out of a financial problem.
If you feel like your gambling is becoming problematic – take a break completely, and seek help.
You can restrict yourself from using all UKGC licenced betting sites by visiting GAMSTOP
You can also get support and advice from GamCare.