Understand the issue with sports betting
We’re all constantly bombarded by advertising, signage and online promotions, tempting us to bet on sport. In 2022 the Australian gambling industry spent more than $300 million on advertising . All these betting ads create the impression that betting is an ordinary part of enjoying sports.
Be aware of how betting works
Ads can make your chances of winning seem attractive, easy and risk-free. Realistically, the odds are stacked against you and chances are you’re going to lose.
Sports betting ads also make it seem like a fun, social activity that goes hand in hand with being a sports fan. In reality, gambling carries serious risks and the harm from gambling can have lifelong consequences for you, your friends and family.
Consider these facts:
- The more you gamble the more likely you are to experience negative consequences. One in 5 adults who suffer serious harm from gambling began before they turned 18.
- Young people are particularly at-risk of harm from sports betting. You could even experience gambling harm before you reach your 20s.
That’s why we’re encouraging Queenslanders to forget the bet and enjoy the game. Remember all the reasons you watch sport —for the excitement, roar of the crowd, thrill of victory and the fun you have with friends, watching your favourite athletes in action.
Know the facts
Betting has become increasingly tied to sport, particularly for children and young people. Here are the facts, according to a recent survey:
- More than half of the Queensland sports fans surveyed had a bet on sport in the past year.
- Younger fans tend to accept sports betting as a normal part of Queensland culture and an acceptable social activity.
- Young men are more likely to bet on sports, especially if they watch a lot of sport on TV and think their friends and family have positive views of sports betting.
- Most young people who bet on sports do it online or using a mobile app.
Across Australia:
- People who bet on sports regularly are at a greater risk of gambling harm.
- Around 148 gambling ads are aired on TV every weeknight between 6 and 8pm—that’s 1 ad a minute.
- Sports and race betting have shown a substantial increase in player expenditure in recent years, up 27.3% on the previous year to $5.815 billion in 2020-21.
Where to get help
If you or someone you care about is at risk of gambling-related harm, reach out to Gambling Help Queensland for free and confidential advice and support.
Find out more about counselling, support and advice.
More information
- Learn how to spot gambling harm and when people are at risk.
- Find out about the risks and red flags that go with sports betting.
- Get ideas to help you talk to others about the risks of sports betting.