Domestic Violence Services Strained as Gambling Harm Concerns Rise
A surge in demand for domestic and family violence services is anticipated following increased gambling activity, while concerns grow that delayed federal restrictions on gambling advertising are exposing young people to risk.
Domestic Violence NSW CEO Delia Donovan warned today that a single night of increased calls could translate into months of stretched capacity for frontline services, which already face two-month waitlists. “Spikes in demand only compound the pressure on providers who are already severely under-resourced,” she said. This comes as sporting events often see a rise in both gambling and related domestic incidents.
In New South Wales, several state sporting clubs – including the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, South Sydney Rabbitohs, the Sydney Swans and the Giants Netball – have partnered with the government on the “Reclaim the Game” initiative, pledging to reduce gambling sponsorship and advertising. The move follows a 2023 inquiry, chaired by the late Peta Murphy MP, which recommended a national ban on all online gambling advertising and sponsorship within three years; however, the federal government opted for a plan to cap ads on television and ban them during and around sports broadcasts.
Alliance for Gambling Reform CEO Martin Thomas criticized the delayed ban, stating gambling companies have been given extra time to target young people. A recent Australian Institute study found almost one in three 12- to 17-year-olds gamble, losing an estimated $231 million annually. “They are grooming a whole new generation of gamblers, and they’ve had two years longer to do it because of government inaction,” Thomas said. Resources are available for those struggling with gambling addiction through Gambling Help Online. Support is also available from the National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).
Officials say they will continue to monitor the impact of gambling advertising and work with stakeholders to address the issue.
