Online gambling has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, due to 24-hour access to online betting websites and apps. This week is Gambling Harm Awareness Week, and ACT Minister for Gaming, Shane Rattenbury, implored Canberrans to consider the impacts of gambling on themselves and the people they care about, and to seek support if they experience the signs of gambling harm.

“What might start as quick and easy entertainment online or a solution to financial pressure, can end up having serious consequences,” Mr Rattenbury said. “Excessive gambling can leave you in financial stress, feeling guilty and spending less time with the people you really care about.

“It’s important to recognise the signs of gambling harm, and Gambling Harm Awareness Week is an opportunity for people to check in with themselves or with loved ones to see if you or anyone you know is experiencing harm.”

The gambling industry spent $271 million on advertising in Australia last year. Almost one in three respondents to an Australian Gambling Research Centre survey signed up for a new online betting account during COVID-19 last year. Young men (aged 18–34 years) were most likely to sign up for new online accounts.

Markus Fischer, an ACT Gambling Support Service peer support worker, said his gambling often left him feeling ashamed and remorseful.

“I never thought of the consequences of gambling,” Mr Fischer said. “It was fun entertainment – and grew into something that affected every aspect of my life: my mental health, my work, and my relationships.

“In fact, gambling ambushed me.

“I have since realised I have choices – always did, always have. I am now a peer support worker, and I share my story with people, as this is about choices, education, and starting conversations around low and moderate gambling harm, and what it looks and feels like, and how to seek support.”

Paul Townsley, ACT Gambling Support Service, said his clients had reported using more cannabis and alcohol, and suffering more from anxiety and depression, due to isolation during COVID restrictions.

The closure of gambling venues during lockdown was a helpful opportunity to stop, reflect, and break a cycle of gambling harm, said Paul Baxter, Chair of the ACT Gambling and Racing Commission.

“As venues reopen, it is important to think about the impacts gambling may have had for you and your family, and the steps you can take to strengthen your wellbeing into the future.”

If gambling harm affects you, a friend, or a family member, you can find free confidential online support at:

• gamblinghelponline.org.au, or you can speak to a support person on 1800 858 858.

The signs of gambling harm are:

• Spending more time or money gambling than you wanted
• Having less money than you would like
• Having regrets after playing
• Losing focus at work or social events
• Trying to win back your losses
• Spending less time with people you care about
• Hiding how much you play from friends and family
• Playing after the fun stops