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Flinders University Researchers Call for Enhanced Measures Amidst Rising Gambling Losses
In a new review, Flinders University experts reveal that harm-minimization tools for gambling, similar to safety measures when driving a car, are often ineffective and overlooked by occasional gamblers. Despite an annual gambling loss of approximately $25 billion in Australia—a nation with a population of just 27 million—tools designed to curb gambling-related harm are not making a substantial impact.
Dr. Riley, a lead researcher in the study, emphasizes that many gamblers do not perceive themselves as at risk and thus ignore consumer protection messages like “Chances are you’re about to lose” and “Set a deposit limit before you play.” Such messages are often dismissed by those who view them as applicable only to individuals with severe gambling problems, rather than as preventative measures for all gamblers.
The review, published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, analyzed 55 peer-reviewed articles assessing the effectiveness of various harm-minimization strategies. These include generic pop-up messages, voluntary and involuntary exclusion programs, and other early intervention methods. The findings highlight a significant gap between the availability of these tools and their actual impact on reducing gambling behavior over time.
“Inconsistencies in the promotion and implementation of these tools can be attributed to the self-regulatory nature of gambling codes of conduct,” the researchers state. They draw parallels with concerns voiced by alcohol experts regarding the self-regulation of responsible drinking messages by the alcohol industry.
The study underscores the need for a more robust approach to gambling harm minimization, including increased research into new therapies and interventions. Researchers advocate for a multidisciplinary strategy to enhance the effectiveness of existing tools and encourage broader uptake among gamblers.
In response to escalating gambling losses, an alliance of prominent Australians has called for a total ban on gambling advertisements. This call for action comes after Australian state statistics revealed that gambling losses continued to exceed $24 billion during the 2020–2021 financial year, even amid COVID-19 restrictions that shuttered many gambling venues.
The review titled “Gambling Harm-Minimisation Tools and Their Impact on Gambling Behaviour: A Review of the Empirical Evidence” is authored by Ben J. Riley and colleagues and is available in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (2024). For more information, refer to DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21080998.
