A new report has found that Australians have the highest gambling losses globally.

According to a recent report from the Grattan Institute, Australia has earned the unfortunate title of being the biggest gambling loser in the world. The report highlights the country's "lax approach" towards regulating the industry, allowing it to "run wild" and causing Australians to lose an average of $1635 per year on gambling.

To put things into perspective, this amount exceeds the average household's annual spending on power and is significantly higher than other countries like the US and New Zealand. In total, Australians lost a staggering $24 billion to gambling in the last fiscal year, with half of that amount being spent on poker machines alone.

The report also sheds light on the widespread availability of pokies in Australia, with the machines being more common than post boxes and public toilets across the country. The Northern Territory and New South Wales are the two regions with the highest concentration of pokies, and consequently, they also reported the highest losses.

The authors of the report express concern over the addictive nature of gambling products, citing potential consequences such as job loss, bankruptcy, relationship breakdowns, family violence, and even suicide. As a solution, the report recommends that the federal government implement a complete ban on gambling advertisements and gradually reduce the number of pokies in each state.

Additionally, the report suggests the implementation of a mandatory pre-commitment system for online gambling and poker machines, which would limit the daily losses of individuals. The report also provides information on various resources available for those seeking help with gambling addiction, such as the National Gambling Helpline, online counseling, and support services for friends and family.

It is crucial to note that all of these services are free, confidential, and accessible 24/7. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, there are various options for seeking help and support. Don't hesitate to reach out and take the first step towards a healthier relationship with gambling.

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