Did you know there is a group of Australians who quietly hand over billions of dollars each year—for nothing in return? In New South Wales alone, poker machines generated over $8.4 billion in losses in 2022–23, with more than 86,000 machines operating across the state.1 In South Australia, gaming machines generate over $1 billion annually.2
A similar pattern exists in Great Britain, where the gambling industry generated around £16.8 billion in 2024–25.3
This is not entertainment at the margins. It is a system sustained by ordinary losses on a massive scale.
This is not the activity of a fringe minority. In Australia, around one in six adults are at some level of risk of gambling harm, including 2–3% at high risk.4 In Great Britain, the figures are strikingly similar.5
The consequences can be devastating—financial hardship, broken relationships, and deep personal distress.4 Each problem gambler affects six to ten other people.7 Millions live in the shadow of someone else’s habit. It is now recognised as a public health issue in both countries.6
People who spend more than they can afford—the ‘mug punters’—are those most likely to believe the myth that they can come out ahead. But the system is built the other way. Most lose. A few win just often enough to keep them playing.3
Why it’s so hard to stop
For many, gambling is not just about excitement. It is a way of escaping—numbing financial stress, relationship strain, or personal distress.4 But the habit is driven by potent urges—triggered by thoughts, feelings, and situations—making it difficult to break.
The good news is that what is learned can be unlearned—but usually not without help.
It seldom helps to lecture or shame a gambler into changing. Nor does rescuing them financially. In most cases, this only prolongs the problem.
Real change begins when the gambler recognises the problem and reaches for help—before the cost becomes irreversible.
If gambling has become a problem, help is available. Australia: Gambling Help Online – 1800 858 858.8 UK: National Gambling Helpline – 0808 8020 133.9
References
1. New South Wales Government. (2023). Gaming machine statistics 2022–23.
2. Consumer and Business Services SA. (2024). Gaming machine annual statistics.
3. Gambling Commission. (2025). Industry statistics: April 2024–March 2025.
4. Australian Institute of Family Studies. (2023). National Gambling Trends Study.
5. Gambling Commission. (2024). Gambling Survey for Great Britain.
6. Office for Health Improvement and Disparities. (2023). Gambling-related harms evidence review.
7. Productivity Commission. (2010). Gambling (Report no. 50).
8. Australian Government Department of Social Services. (2025). Gambling Help Online.
9. NHS / National Gambling Support Network. (2025). National Gambling Helpline.