Why conversations about youth gambling matter
For many families in Australia, gambling might not seem like something teenagers encounter. But for today’s young people, it’s hard to avoid. Gambling ads appear during sporting broadcasts, betting apps sit on smartphones, and gambling-style mechanics are increasingly built into online games.
As a result, gambling is showing up in young people’s lives earlier than many families realise. Exposure through sport, media and digital platforms is becoming increasingly common. Research from The Australia Institute estimates that almost one in three (30%) Australians aged 12–17 have already tried gambling. By ages 18–19, that number rises to almost half (46%). These trends highlight why it is important to talk to teens about gambling early.
Why young people are drawn to gambling
Understanding why gambling appeals to young people can make these conversations easier and more productive.
Several factors are contributing to the growing visibility of gambling among young Australians.
Gambling advertising and sport
Betting promotions are now common during live sport broadcasts and across online streaming platforms. Over time, this exposure can make gambling feel like a normal part of being a sports fan.
Research shows that gambling marketing is widespread in Australia. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) reported that more than one million gambling advertisements were broadcast on free-to-air television and metropolitan radio between May 2022 and April 2023, with around half of those ads promoting online gambling services.
Mobile betting apps
Unlike previous generations, gambling is now available almost anywhere and at any time. A smartphone can place a bet within seconds, removing many of the traditional barriers that once existed.
The Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation notes that online gambling environments can increase risk because people can bet immediately and continuously across the day, making access constant and harder to step away from.
Gaming features that resemble gambling
Many video games now include mechanics such as loot boxes and skins betting. These systems reward risk-taking behaviour, and some research suggests they may be linked to later gambling problems.
Social media and peer influence
Young people often see gambling wins celebrated online by influencers or friends. What isn’t often shown are the losses that usually come with those wins.
When these factors combine, gambling can feel exciting, accessible and relatively harmless.
Why talking early makes a difference
One of the most effective ways to support young people is through open conversation.
Young people who feel comfortable talking about risk, money and online behaviour are more likely to make informed decisions. Research shows that open, supportive communication with trusted adults can play an important role in reducing risky behaviours among young people.
Importantly, discussions about gambling do not need to wait until a problem develops. In fact, they are often most helpful before a behaviour becomes harmful.
Talking early can help young people:
- understand how gambling works
- recognise risks and odds
- develop healthy decision-making skills
- seek support if needed
Tips for starting the conversation
If you’re unsure how to begin, the conversation doesn’t have to be complicated. Often it starts with simple, everyday moments.
Many parents and carers worry about saying the wrong thing. In reality, the most effective conversations are simple, calm and judgment-free.
Choose a natural moment
A conversation might start while watching a sporting event together or when a betting advertisement appears on television or social media.
Questions such as:
- “What do you think about betting ads during sport?”
- “Do people at school talk about gambling?”
can open the door to discussion.
Listen first
When talking with young people about gambling, listening is often more important than explaining.
Focus on understanding rather than blame
Gambling behaviours are often connected to curiosity, excitement or peer influence. Explaining how gambling systems work can help young people develop critical thinking skills.
For example, discussing how betting odds are designed to favour gambling companies can provide valuable insight.
5 practical ways to start conversations about gambling
If you are unsure where to begin, these steps can help guide the conversation.
1. Start with curiosity, not criticism
Ask open questions about what they see online or during sports broadcasts. Curiosity encourages honest discussion.
2. Explain how gambling actually works
Many young people don’t fully understand how betting odds or probability work.
3. Discuss advertising and influence
Point out how gambling is promoted during sports broadcasts and across social media. Recognising marketing strategies helps young people question what they see.
4. Talk about money and consequences
Help young people understand how repeated small bets can quickly add up.
5. Let them know support exists
Remind them that if gambling ever becomes stressful or difficult, support services and recovery programs are available.
Helping young people recognise risk
Another key part of youth gambling support is helping young people recognise when behaviour might be becoming harmful.
Early warning signs can include:
- spending increasing amounts of money on betting or games
- feeling pressure to win back losses
- hiding gambling activity from family or friends
- thinking about gambling frequently
These signs don’t always mean a serious problem is developing, but they can be a helpful signal that it’s time to check in and talk.
Helping young people build healthier habits around sport and gaming
Families and communities can help by reinforcing the positive aspects of sport and entertainment.
Encouraging activities that focus on enjoyment, teamwork and connection can reduce the emphasis on betting.
Helpful strategies include:
- emphasising sport as entertainment rather than gambling opportunity
- encouraging participation in hobbies and physical activity
- setting healthy boundaries around gaming and spending
- modelling responsible attitudes toward money and risk
These approaches can help young people develop healthier relationships with entertainment, risk and decision-making.
Finding support
If gambling begins to affect study, work, relationships or wellbeing, support can make a meaningful difference.
Programs such as SMART Recovery Australia provide safe and inclusive peer support groups where people can talk about gambling and other addictive behaviours.
Smart Recovery uses evidence based tools grounded in cognitive behavioural therapy to help individuals:
- manage urges
- develop coping strategies
- build healthier routines
- strengthen motivation for change
Reaching out is not about blame. It is about helping people build the skills and confidence needed to regain balance and wellbeing.