Canberrans are being called on to recognise the signs of gambling harm during Gambling Harm Awareness Week this week (18-24 October) following an increase in online betting during the coronavirus pandemic.
Minister for Gaming, Shane Rattenbury marked the Week’s launch by calling on punters to consider the impact that gambling had on themselves and the people they cared for.
Mr Rattenbury said the 24-hour access to online betting websites and apps and evolving technologies had resulted in an increase in online gambling during the pandemic.
“A survey from the Australian Gambling Research Centre found almost one in three survey participants signed up for a new online betting account during COVID-19 last year, with young men (aged 18-34 years) most likely to sign up for new online accounts,” he said.
“What might start as quick and easy entertainment online, or a solution to financial pressure, can end up having serious consequences.
“Excessive gambling can leave you in financial stress, feeling guilty and spending less time with the people you really care about.”
Mr Rattenbury said it was important to recognise the signs of gambling harm and Gambling Harm Awareness Week was an opportunity for people to check in with themselves or with loved ones.
The Minister said signs of gambling harm included spending more time or money gambling than what the gambler wanted; having less money than they would like; feeling regret after playing; losing focus at work or social events; trying to win back losses; spending less time with loved ones; hiding gambling from family and friends; and playing after the fun stopped.
Chair of the Gambling and Racing Commission, Paul Baxter said the closure of gambling venues in the ACT over the past few months would have affected people differently.
“The closure of venues has provided a helpful opportunity for some people to stop, reflect and break a cycle of gambling harm,” Mr Baxter said.
“As venues reopen, it is important to think about the impacts gambling may have had for you and your family, and the steps you can take to strengthen your wellbeing into the future.”
He said the ACT Gambling Support Service, funded by the Commission, offered free, confidential support services for people experience gambling harm.
The ACT Gambling Support Service can be accessed at this PS News link.
