Roy Morgan data underscores gambling reform debate 

More than 3.3 million Australian adults are living with financial, emotional or social consequences linked to gambling, new Roy Morgan research has found.

The latest Roy Morgan Gambling Harm Index estimates 15.1 per cent of adults are affected either by their own wagering or the behaviour of someone close to them.

That includes 13 per cent of adults, or about 2.86 million people, experiencing adverse effects from their own betting, while 5.4 per cent, or 1.18 million, are affected by another person’s gambling, with some respondents falling into both categories.

The index defines gambling harm as the financial, emotional, psychological and social consequences experienced by those who gamble and by people close to them.

The findings are based on the Gambling Harm Scales developed by Central Queensland University, which measure outcomes across 10 indicators.

Financial pressures emerged as the most common consequence.

Across the adult population, 7.8 per cent said they had less disposable income because of betting, 7.1 per cent reported reduced savings and 5.9 per cent had cut spending on recreation such as dining out, movies and other entertainment.

The survey, which did not distinguish between wagering and gaming, also highlighted the emotional toll.

It found 5.9 per cent expressed regret about their betting, 5.8 per cent felt ashamed, 4.8 per cent said it left them feeling like a failure and 4.5 per cent experienced distress.

Relationships were also affected, with 4.5 per cent saying they spent less time with people they care about because of betting.

The research also found 3.6 per cent had accumulated additional credit card debt, while 2.6 per cent had sold personal belongings.

Roy Morgan chief executive Michele Levine said the findings illustrated the scale of the issue as the Albanese government considers further gambling reforms.

Financial hardship remained the most common outcome for those adversely affected.

“Most commonly, Australians experiencing gambling harm from their own gambling habits report adverse financial impacts,” Levine said.

She said the findings also demonstrated that the effects extended well beyond financial losses.

“The Roy Morgan Gambling Harm Index (GHI) provides a comprehensive measure of gambling-related harm in Australia, covering a broad range of financial, emotional, psychological and social impacts associated with gambling,” Levine said.

The figures were released as debate continues over the federal government’s proposed betting reforms, including restrictions on wagering advertising and other measures aimed at reducing gambling-related harm.