Gambling Statistics & Trends in Australia 2024
Welcome to our deep dive into the bustling world of gambling in Australia!
In this blog, we'll explore the intriguing statistics that illustrate just how much Australians love their gambling. From the staggering amounts wagered annually to the popularity of pokies and major betting venues, we'll unpack the numbers that make Australia one of the top gambling nations globally.
Get ready for an informative journey through the trends and figures that define Australian gambling, and discover what makes it such a vibrant part of the local culture and economy.
Whether you're a seasoned bettor or just curious about the stats, there's something here for everyone.
Gambling Overview Worldwide
Hold onto your hats— the global gambling scene is spinning faster than a roulette wheel! Despite some strict regulations, Australia leads the pack with an impressive 73% of adults who have rolled the dice or played the slots in the past year.
The 5,098 casinos and online gambling hubs worldwide have increased by another 3.6% this past year alone
With sports betting, lotteries, scratch cards, and timeless games like Blackjack and Roulette, there’s something for everyone. Surprisingly, 26% of people worldwide have tried gambling.
Gambling in Australia
Australia stands out with 6.8 million gamblers, placing it among the top ten globally. Here, nearly $18 billion is bet each year
"Pokies," or poker machines, dominate the scene. You'll find them in places beyond the shiny casinos, deeply woven into local communities and tourism. In places outside Western Australia, they're a cultural staple, exclusive to casinos there.
So, whether you're playing pokies or betting in grand casinos, gambling in Australia is more than just luck. Gambling statistics around the world are showing this industry is going from strength to strength.
Most Popular Forms of Gambling in Australia
So where are Aussies placing all their bets in 2024? Lotto and scratchies are the clear winner here, with over 64% of total gambling spend in Australia attributed to these beloved games. But our world-famous pokies aren't far behind, and we all love to place a cheeky fiver on the footy now and again
Pokies
Rewind to 1956, the golden year when pokies first dazzled Aussies, with New South Wales rolling out the red carpet for these captivating machines in registered clubs. Australia outstrips even Vegas, boasting more pokies than the entire United States!
Despite being the world’s 52nd largest population, these machines are a national obsession, found not just in glitzy casinos but also in local hotels and clubs across the country. It’s a true Aussie love story spinning since 1956, engaging 2.9 million adults or 16% of the adult population.
Each week, 42% of these enthusiasts are drawn by the thrill of a potential big win and the sheer fun of the game, pumping funds into local sports and community projects. More than just a flutter, every spin helps spin the wheels of community welfare.
Sports Betting
Sports betting has a storied presence in Australia, reflecting the nation's strong sports culture and passion for events like Aussie Rules football, cricket, and rugby.
The practice has seen a rise in popularity, facilitated by state-run TAB outlets which offer a legal and structured way for people to bet on a wide range of sports.
The communal aspect of sports betting, often enjoyed in social settings like sports bars and clubs, enhances its appeal among Australians, making it a favoured gambling activity.
Online Gambling
Online gambling in Australia operates under strict regulations, largely governed by the Interactive Gambling Act (IGA) of 2001. This act was updated to ban in-play sports betting to prevent live betting during sports events.
While online casinos are prohibited, online sports betting remains legal. Operations are predominantly licensed in the Northern Territory, which has maintained a controlled yet thriving online gambling sector.
Despite restrictions, offshore online casinos still attract Australian gamblers.
Laws and Regulations
State-Level Regulation
In Australia, each state and territory has its own set of laws and regulatory bodies that govern gambling. This decentralised approach allows for tailored gambling environments across different regions.
Number of Regulated Operators
Victoria, for example, operates under a duopoly where Tabcorp and Tatts exclusively manage live sports betting and lotteries. This kind of regulatory setup varies from state to state, influencing the types and accessibility of gambling services.
Online Gambling Laws
The Interactive Gambling Act (IGA) of 2001 is a critical piece of federal legislation that governs online gambling in Australia. It specifically bans online casino gaming and in-play sports betting, while allowing online sports betting before events commence.
Pokie Machines Regulation
Pokies are subject to stringent regulations regarding their availability and operation. For instance, in New South Wales, there are around 95,000 pokie machines, and laws govern how many are allowed in clubs and pubs to prevent oversaturation.
Contribution to Public Funds
Gambling taxes are a significant source of revenue for state governments. For example, the NSW government collects billions of dollars annually from gambling activities, which are then invested back into community and public services.
Gambling Advertising Restrictions
Recent amendments to the gambling laws have tightened restrictions on advertising, especially during live sports events, to minimise exposure to vulnerable populations, including minors.
Meet the Players: Who's Betting in Australia?
From the buzzing pokies in local pubs to the sophisticated tournaments of the Aussie Millions poker event, there's something for everyone. Aussies wager nearly $18 billion yearly, with Lotto and sports betting among the favourites. We've got a good snapshot of the scene—let's check it out some of these gambling statistics!
Average Age: It's not just the grey-haired gents at the track; gambling in Australia spans generations! Though the sweet spot for gambling falls between the young-at-heart 30 to 50-year-olds who have a bit more cash to splash. And don’t overlook the young guns (18-29); thanks to snazzy apps and online ease, they’re quickly getting in on the action too.
Average Gender: Move over, gents—ladies are fast becoming keen contenders in the gambling game. While men have traditionally dominated the betting fields with 54%, recent years have seen women closing in fast, bringing fresh enthusiasm and changing the game’s landscape.
Average Spend: All levels of earners find themselves placing bets, but it's clear that those with thicker wallets might throw a little more into the ring. However, the thrill of a flutter knows no income bounds, with pokies and sports bets attracting a mixed crowd, from high rollers to more modest betters.
Regular gamblers in the 18-34 age bracket spend significantly on gambling activities. Pokies gamblers in this group can spend around $1,453 monthly across all forms of gambling, which includes about $500 specifically on pokies. Meanwhile, regular online bettors of the same age group spend about $886 monthly across all forms of gambling.
Economic Impact
Gambling plays a significant role in Australia's economy, particularly through the widespread popularity of pokies. The revenue generated from gambling activities contributes massively to state and federal budgets, funding key public sectors such as healthcare, education, and community projects.
Gambling generates substantial revenue in Australia, with the industry contributing around AUD $25 billion annually. 20-60% of which is given to the government to support public projects. This economic contribution underscores the importance of responsible management and regulation of the industry to sustain its benefits to the community.
This factor is the reason why gambling is generally well-received in Australia.
Online Gambling Statistics
Global gambling reports suggest that 17% of all gambling activities now take place online, generating impressive revenues of $5.3 billion for the digital gambling sector alone.
In the United States, online gambling has exploded, seeing a remarkable 267% growth over the past four years.
Similarly, the shift from traditional brick-and-mortar casinos to online platforms is significant in Australia. Enhanced technology and faster internet connections are making online gambling increasingly popular, bringing the experience of playing table games in physical casinos directly into competition with legal online alternatives from abroad.
May analysts are attributing COVID to this sudden boom in the market, but even with land-based casinos reopening, there are no signs of slowing down for the best online casinos.
Aussie Online Gambling Stats That Will Surprise You
- As of 2022, a cool 11% of Aussies have tried their luck with online gambling in just the last six months. It's no wonder—online platforms are becoming super user-friendly and are dishing out new ways to play that are tough to ignore, making digital betting a daily ritual for many.
- Jump back to 2018, and 22.7% of Aussies were laying down bets right from their mobiles. That's a massive leap from just 5.6% in 2012. With nearly everyone expected to have a smartphone by 2026, the sky's the limit for mobile betting.
- Between 2012 and 2018, the number of Aussies making online bets more than doubled, hitting 34.1%. This surge is thanks to the sheer convenience, zippy internet speeds, enticing bonuses, and some pretty slick betting apps that make you feel right in the action.
- The Aussie online gambling market is buzzing, projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.09% from 2023 to 2028. From virtual keno to Bitcoin bets and instant scratch tickets, the industry could hit a jackpot of $7.2 billion USD by 2028
- Men are twice as likely to roll the virtual dice than women
.
| Online Gamblers | 18-34 years | 35 and over | NET |
|---|---|---|---|
| Used an offshore betting site or app | 11% | 2% | 5% |
| Did not know where their service was located | 9% | 4% | 6% |
| Did not use an offshore betting site or app | 78% | 94% | 89% |
Why Do Aussies Gamble?
So what's all the fuss about when it comes to gambling in Australia? Lets take a look at some of the main motivators for rolling the dice.
- 48% want to win money
- 35% enjoy the excitement
- 33% say it makes sports more interesting
- 29% like the competition
- 18% see it as a hobby
- 18% want to try something new
- 14% were encouraged by peers
Most Popular Online Gambling Games for Aussies
Discover the most beloved games and platforms that have Aussies coming back for more.
Live Dealer Games
Live dealer games have surged in popularity in Australia, offering players the excitement of a real casino experience from the comfort of their homes. Australians are drawn to these games for their authenticity and interactive nature.
Online Pokies
Dive into the electric world of online pokies, where every week, a whopping 600,000 Aussies are hitting the 'spin' button! That's right, from the bustling pubs of Sydney to the glitzy casinos of Melbourne, pokies are an absolute hit. This beloved form of entertainment has carved out its place in the Aussie gambling landscape, capturing the hearts and coins of players across the nation.
Sports Betting
Sports betting is a major player in the Australian gambling market. Approximately 34% of Australians engage in sports betting, demonstrating its wide appeal across various sports from AFL to NRL, with a significant shift towards online platforms.
Poker
Poker thrives across Australia, showcased prominently by the Aussie Millions tournament held at Melbourne's Crown Casino. This event is one of the largest in the Southern Hemisphere, drawing global poker elites. In 2020, the tournament champion pocketed an impressive AUD $1,850,000, highlighting the high stakes and competitive spirit of Australian poker.
Lotto
Australians love their Lotto, with about one in three adults playing regularly. The thrill peaks with huge jackpots, like the record $150 million split by three winners in September 2019. Weekly draws such as Powerball and Oz Lotto continue to promise life-changing sums, making Lotto a staple in the national gambling culture.
Bingo
On any given day, you can find over 1,200 players online engaging in lively chats and vying for prizes that range from $7 to whopping jackpots of $25,000! Australian bingo isn't just a game—it's a thriving social event that brings together players from all walks of life, offering a blend of excitement and the potential for big wins
Responsible Gambling: The House Always Wins
Before you hit those pokies or lay down your bets, remember the house always has the edge. It’s like a footy match— the odds lean towards the house. So, set a limit, gamble for fun, and if you win, consider it a sweet bonus! Stay sharp, play wisely, and take a gander at our responsible gaming tips to keep it safe.
Trust us, you don’t want to become just another statistic…
The Not-So-Flash Gambling Statistics
- Nearly 40% of those who play pokies in Australia are at risk for developing a gambling problem.
- As of 2019, approximately 200,000 Australians were considered at moderate to high risk of harm from gambling.
- Australia had an overall gambling loss of 25 billion dollars in 2023.
- Surveys show that about 15% of young Aussie adults (aged 18 to 24) express concerns over their gambling habits, indicating potential problem gambling.
- Relapse cases account for about 70% of Australians who fall back into problem gambling within a year.
- Around 250,000 Australian adults have experienced second-hand effects of gambling, like financial hardship or relationship issues due to someone else’s gambling.
- These stats highlight why it’s crucial to gamble responsibly and stay informed. Don’t let the game play you—play the game on your terms.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our exploration of gambling statistics and trends in Australia for 2024, it's clear that the thrill of betting runs deep in the Aussie spirit. From the iconic pokies humming in every corner of the country to the strategic sports bets and the virtual roulette wheels spinning online, Australians are not just participating—they are leading trends in the global gambling scene.
Whether you're in it for a flutter or the full thrill, remember to gamble responsibly and enjoy the ride in this vibrant gambling landscape.
Ready to see where luck will take you next in the world of Aussie gambling?
Article Sources
Our writers use a range of reliable sources when producing our articles. We include stats, reports, original reporting and interviews with casino industry experts. We also reference original research from reputable publishers. Our editorial policy outlines the standards our editorial team need to follow to ensure we’re always providing accurate and unbiased content for our readers.
Sarah is our Editor-in-Chief. She brings a decade of experience and is passionate about all things iGaming, keeping readers up to date with the latest news, trends and innovation in the industry.
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