A record $31.5 billion gambling surge despite the cost of living crisis

Despite the rising cost of living, gambling expenditures in Australia have surged to a record $31.5 billion according to a new report by Equity Economics. An increase in accessibility to online gambling has led to significant social and economic impacts, especially among younger generations. The lack of government action, highlighted in the Murphy report, makes it a key election topic with calls for stricter policies and better support measures.

Image: Source: Freepik – rawpixel.com

Produced By: Jordan Zerella

Featured In Story: Martin Thomas – CEO of the Alliance for Gambling Reform

First aired on The Wire, Thursday 13 March 2025