In Australia, new strategies to reduce problem gambling rates put the onus on the player. Voluntary pre-commitment requires players to limit how much they plan on spending, if they feel as though there is the possibility that they may exceed their budget. However, a new study shows that pokies players are unable to recognize the signs of problem gambling, in addition to being hesitant when it comes to seeking help.

The Australian National University recently conduct a study of pokie players in the country. Titled ‘Beliefs and knowledge about gambling amongst high-intensity players of gaming machines’, the research project aimed to discover exactly what pokie players know about the risks of gambling and the signs of problem gambling. Twenty-five players who wager on poker machines regularly were interviewed.

In the research interviews, the players were unable to describe responsible gambling. The majority of respondents could only state that responsible gambling consisted of not exceeding your gambling budget – although there is much more to it than that. There were also unable to identify the signs of problem gambling that are exhibited outside of casinos and other gambling venues.

Spending too much money while gambling is the one obvious sign of addiction, but their knowledge did not extend beyond that. As such, they would not be able to tell if a friend or family member had a gambling problem. The study also found that players who have already identified that they need help are reluctant to enlist in a professional for counselling or any other type of support.

On the other hand, many pokie players are unaware of the services that are available to problem gamblers and their families. “A better understanding is needed of how broader social institutions can support and encourage individuals, their families and friends to seek timely help for gambling problems,” says Dr Annie Carroll, author of the report.

The full report can be found at the ACT Gambling and Racing Commission Website. To read the complete findings, click here.

About the Author

George Anderson
Author George, has over 25+ years’ experience in the Pokies and Casinos industry throughout Australia and New Zealand. Loves to research new Pokies games on the block and follows announcements from top industry providers about their upcoming releases. As soon as a new interesting pokie game appears on his radar, George is there to check it out and give you the scoop before anyone else and tell you about all casino sites where can play the latest game. Before this gig, George worked as Pokie game tester, making him an ideal candidate for this genre of work. He is also an animal lover and a proud owner of three dogs.