Youth gambling harm has become a significant issue, research indicates that it will get worse – unless something changes.
Harm starts early
Alarmingly, one in five adults who suffer significant gambling harm start gambling before the age of eighteen.
Research shows that in Victoria, young men between the ages of 18 to 24 years bet on sport more than any other age group. They make up a third of all sports gambling.
Young people are a vulnerable group and are particularly at risk
The earlier that a person starts gambling, the greater the risk for serious harm.
Young people feel social pressure and want to be accepted. Gambling, like vaping and underage drinking, can be perceived by young people as a normal. It can be considered a fun thing to do and something that everyone is doing.
Opportunities to gamble are easy to find, in social media, games, apps and advertising. Online forms of gambling are available 24/7, with the click of a button.
How you can make a difference
You don’t need to be an expert about gambling harm to start a conversation about it.
