Fifty percent of Australian teens gambled in past year: Survey

The number of teenagers gambling in Australia’s northern suburbs is reaching alarming levels, according to a survey of 215 young people.

Half the respondents admitted to placing a bet in the past year, according to the Salisbury Youth Council, which surveyed mainly 14- to 19-year-olds. 

The survey found that 50 percent of young people had gambled in the past 12 months — 40.3 percent on pokies, 33.3 percent on scratchies, and 26.3 percent on footy tipping and the lotto. Other platforms included horse racing, keno, poker, shares and currency exchange.

According to news.com.au, Relationships Australia gambling practice manager Rosemary Hambledon said children born into problem-gambling families were more likely to suffer addictions compared to those whose parents did not gamble.

The peak counselling and support service has called on the State Government for more youth-targeted education campaigns and support services, news.com.au added.

“Increased support and skills to young people (would also) help them manage the difficult emotions that flow from family, school and other stressors,” she said.

 

Latest Intelligence

Latest issue

PATA CEO sees slow recovery, but optimism for future

AGB Podcasts