The High Cost of Gambling in Australia

Australians lose $1,500 per adult each year to gambling, the highest per capita rate in the world. Approximately 60% of Australians bet at least once a year, and 20% engage in risky gambling.

Three individuals shared their experiences with gambling addiction.

Carolyn's Story: From Employer Theft to Prison

Carolyn, a 64-year-old woman, was sentenced to prison for stealing $400,000 from her employer over seven years to fund gambling on poker machines.

"I did not recognize my behavior as an addiction until receiving counseling in prison."

She has since repaid the stolen amount and now performs in a two-person show recounting her story to raise awareness.

Sarah's Experience: A Father's Addiction

Sarah described her father's gambling addiction, which involved spending hundreds of dollars daily on poker machines and other forms of betting. She recalled a family holiday to Adelaide where her father left her waiting in a casino lobby for two hours while he gambled.

She noted that the gambling industry targets vulnerabilities.

Angus's Journey: From Online Racing to Recovery

Angus, in his late 40s, developed an addiction to online racing gambling following several life stressors. He escalated from using his own money to borrowing and eventually committing crimes to obtain funds.

He entered a treatment facility and has since abstained from alcohol and gambling. He spent time in prison and now advocates for gambling harm prevention.