As per stats, Australia has the worst gambling problem globally! It has approx. 20,000 slot machines. In this country, people who lose money each day on gambling is the highest compared to any other country in the world.
The situation is worsening because the expenditure on gambling is increasing exponentially as almost 200,000 are addicted to gambling. Many would say gambling is not bad, but to a certain extent, it may be addictive.
Even though gambling has introduced new technology, including the shift to online casinos and online slot games, the most popular types of gambling in Australia are “pokies.” It is the nickname for poker.
Aussie owns 20% of the globe’s poker machine. Pokies have flooded Australia. Pokies are banned in clubs and pubs everywhere. Whereas Western Australia has a different story; they are allowed in a single casino.
Given this situation, pokies are blamed for the overwhelming fascination with gambling. Many believe that pokies have bright and colorful lights that attract and hook you.
There are many stories about gambling making the rounds. Tim Costello, a spokesman for the Alliance for Gambling Reform, confirms that more than 400 people in Australia commit suicide after losing their bet to gambling.
There are many other forms of gambling across the country. Pokies are the third form of gambling. The other two forms of gambling include instant scratch cards and lottery games.
In fact, out of the three forms of gambling, poker is the game that people spent more money on playing. People are ready to risk their hard-earned money to the poker machines.
It all shows that gambling is a big problem in Australia. Australia now should refrain from only attempting to ban a particular form of gambling if they want to end the gambling problem in the country. Because we’re living in a world of technology and the number of online gaming is increasing each passing day.
The gambling problem erupted and addicted too many people in Australia because of the close relationship between the gambling commission and the government. This industry has become an important part of the government to earn revenues. Therefore, it’s difficult for the government to impose policies, rules, and regulations governing the gambling industry.
The government makes almost AU$2 billion annually in taxes from gambling!
However, some people may argue that the social expenses caused by gambling in pokies are by far more than the economic benefit. Hence, the government is endangering the lives of its citizens by supporting gambling.
Although gambling is an entertainment activity made for enjoyment. Still, it must be played with responsibility. The Australian government must find out ways to ensure its citizens play pokies responsibly. Creating awareness amongst people can help them know the risks involved and how to keep themselves safe.
