Queensland residents have always been big spenders on the pokies, and recent statistics show that they are getting even more generous with their gambling. The state has seen a rise in pokie spending worth tens of thousands of dollars, and local welfare groups are concerned. According to the Courier Mail, venues across Queensland earned $820 million on poker machines from January to October 2014.
This marks a huge $38.9 million increase from the same period of time in 2013. In October alone, residents spent $87 million on pokies – $5.9 million more than October 2013. The month with the lowest recorded revenue was February, which saw $72.3 million. August was the most successful month, earning $93 million.
It is interesting to note that the rise in poker machine spending seems to correlate with the state’s increase in unemployment rates. In January 2013, the unemployment rate was 5.7%, and rose to 5.9% in October 2013. By October 2014, the rate had risen to 7%.
These numbers seem to back up the belief that some problem gamblers develop their unhealthy gambling habits because they feel like they can earn a big payday from the games to solve all of their financial problems. While pokies have the potential to pay out life-changing prizes, they are not to be depended on. The situation highlights the need for better education about poker machines.
Punters should be made aware of the realistic odds of winning large prizes while playing pokies, in order to help them form healthy gambling habits. Some schools have already put this type of program in place to offer this insight to young people early on, and it is hoped that this will result in a decline in gambling addiction among younger generations.
About the Author
