November 15th, 2024Uni staff call for gambling regulatory reforms

Staff at Ballarat’s Federation University are calling for reform to address the impacts of gambling in the wake of Lancet Commission report findings.

Published last month, the report findings indicate that harms caused by gambling are more significant than previously thought and are being exacerbated by digital and online platforms.

The Commission estimates that 46·2% of adults and 17·9% of adolescents had engaged in gambling in the past year, globally with gambling now available 24/7 to anyone with internet access.

Principal research fellow at Federation University, Dr Angela Rintoul, a member of the Lancet Commission, said she was concerned about the Federal Government’s response following last year’s Murphy Enquiry.

“Constant promotion of gambling is exposing young people to gambling advertising as never before, with devastating consequences for many,” Dr Rintoul said.

“We know that gambling causes enormous harm not only to those who gamble, but their family members, friends, and colleagues.

“High levels of gambling contribute significantly to suicide, domestic violence and other health and wellbeing issues.

The Lancet Commission report indicates that adolescents, children, and those from disadvantaged socio-economic groups are most at risk of being impacted by gambling harms.

“The recommendations in the Lancet Commission Report clearly outline urgent recommendations that will help keep our communities safe,” said Federation University vice-chancellor Professor Duncan Bentley said.

“Gambling advertising has catastrophic impacts on lives far beyond financial stress and it is our responsibility to protect young people who are especially vulnerable to the risks.”