Australia has the highest per capita gambling losses worldwide, with over A$25 billion (US$15.6 billion) lost annually. This amounts to approximately A$21,000 (US$13,000) per adult, with 38% of the population gambling at least weekly. To address this issue, MP Rebekha Sharkie has introduced a bill that would require online gambling platforms to display players’ losses in real time. The counters would show both current session losses and cumulative losses over time, allowing players to see the financial consequences of their gambling. Supporters believe this measure could lead to significant behavioral changes, though it is not a complete solution to Australia’s gambling problems.
Details of the Proposal and Its Origins
The concept was first suggested in 2023 by Western Australian businessman Jake Minear during a parliamentary committee on gambling reform. Minear argued that just as bank accounts transparently show balances, gambling platforms should clearly display net losses and wins. The bill proposes that platforms show data for the current month, the current year, and from the date the law takes effect. Minear initially wanted data to include losses from when players first started gambling on a platform, but this was deemed too complex and impractical.
Government Response and Ongoing Debates
The federal government has faced criticism for its approach tо gambling regulation. While a 2023 parliamentary committee recommended a complete ban оn gambling advertisements, the government instead implemented limited restrictions, particularly for ads targeting children and airing around sporting events. Critics argue that these measures prioritize gambling and media industry interests over public health. Sharkie contends that her proposal іs a cost-effective way tо reduce gambling-related harm, giving players greater transparency into their losses and potentially saving lives.
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